History of Lowestoft Town Hall

Pre-1859

A chapel of ease was built on the site in the early to mid fourteenth century, which was incorporated into a market building that was eventually known as the Town House or Chamber.  It was rebuilt in 1689.

1859

The 1698 building was demolished and replaced with a new building designed by John Louth Clemence.  Samuel Morton Peto donated stained-glass windows by John Thomas.  The existing Council Chamber remains from this version of the Town Hall.

c1870s

The New Market Inn on Compass Street was built.  It was incorporated into the Town Hall in the 1970s, although is not part of the Grade II listing.

1899-1900

Widening of High Street meant much of the previous building was demolished and rebuilt, with only the old Council Chamber retained.  The architect was Borough Engineer George Henry Hanby.

1904

The Town Hall extended up by three bays on Compass Street, also designed by Hanby.

1914

The Town Hall extended up to Mariners Street to accommodate a committee room, residential accommodation and offices.

1935

Small extension to the 1914 extension on Mariner Street.

1970s

The New Market inn is incorporated into the Town Hall.

1993

The Town Hall becomes a listed building.

2015

Waveney District Council moved out of the Town Hall. It has remained unoccupied since.

2017

Lowestoft Town Council was formed and became the owner of the Town Hall.