Plans in for Plymouth Guildhall restoration

Plans have been submitted to “bring buzz and bands” back to Plymouth’s Guildhall.The application for planning and listed building consent has been carefully put together to make sure any upgrades minimise impact on the grade II-listed building where possible.It is also designed to create space for a variety of other uses, such as entertainment events, conferences, training, weddings and hot-desking.It is hoped the changes will bring bands back to a building that has seen David Bowie, Queen and The Who perform.Lined up is improving the lighting, audio visuals and sound in the Great Hall, as well as changes to the entrance, lifts, Lounge Bar and Drake Room Bars, and the Astor, Charter and North Rooms.Cabinet member for finance councillor Mark Shayer said: “We have this amazing building, but we need to make more of it. There has been lots of discussions with event organisers and promoters so that the improvements work for them as well as ensuring the building’s amazing interior is not compromised.”We see this an investment – not just in the city, but the city centre, a feel-good factor for residents of all ages who can enjoy a wider variety of events – and it will bring in an income for the council.”The Guildhall was originally built in the 1870s but was reduced to a shell during the Blitz. It was one of the few damaged buildings to be restored rather than rebuilt, with the restoration continuing through most of the 1950s.The project is expected to cost £3.9m comprising £2.45m allocated in the council’s capital budget in March 2021 and £1.5m from the Future High Streets fund.