The historic roof statues and windows at Todmorden Town Hall are back to their former glory following a specialist restoration project.
The work, managed by Calderdale Council and carried out by Bullen Conservation, saw three of the 16 high-level windows replaced and all 10 limestone statues cleaned at the iconic Grade I listed building.
The intricate outdoor statues had deteriorated over time and the acid-etched glazing in the windows had cracked, so it was essential to repair these unique heritage features. They now have a new lease of life, and are once again a striking part of the Town Hall.
Due to their historical importance, specialist and traditional skills were used to carry out the work. The ‘roundel’ windows, which go all the way around the top of the building, are heavily engraved and etched with the Yorkshire and Lancashire rose emblems. The damaged ones were replaced with specially made glass that exactly matches the original windows. The statues were cleaned very carefully using traditional hand tools and water sprays.
The statues reflect local traditional jobs and the location of the Town Hall between Yorkshire and Lancashire. There are three textile workers, a book keeper, two matriarchs representing Yorkshire and Lancashire, a blacksmith, two corn harvesters and a shepherd.
Todmorden Town Hall was awarded over £22,000 of funding from WREN (Waste Recycling Environmental Limited) last year to help towards the restoration. The not-for-profit business awards grants for community, conservation and heritage projects using funding from landfill tax. Calderdale Council matched the grant and Todmorden Town Council made a generous contribution.
Calderdale Council’s Deputy Leader, Cllr Scott Benton, said:
“I’m delighted that the historic statues and windows have been given a new lease of life. The difference is amazing. Todmorden Town Hall is a magnificent building and now it looks even better, showcasing our rich local heritage for years to come.”
Cabinet Member for Communities, Cllr Marcus Thompson, added:
“Todmorden Town Hall is a much loved part of the community, and I’m thrilled that it has had the restoration that it deserves. This investment highlights our commitment to making the building a focal point for current and future generations. We’ve had fantastic feedback from local residents and visitors.”
One of the comments received from a member of the public was:
“The statues look great now they have been cleaned.”
To find out more about Todmorden Town Hall and to hire the building for an event, visit Todmorden Town Hall.