Work begins today on the $4.6 million Adelaide Town Hall façade restoration, which aims to conserve the iconic city landmark.
While the building has stood tall since its opening in 1866, over the years it has seen only minor repairs to its exterior. The façade has increasingly displayed signs of wear and tear, including cracking, decaying render, delamination, and water shedding.
This new extensive project is the first of its kind aimed at addressing these concerns, ensuring the building remains a testament to Adelaide’s rich history.
Duratec, an Australian company specialising in heritage restoration, has been entrusted with the responsibility of conserving the landmark. Starting from today, they will begin the process of setting up external scaffolding on Pirie Street. The restoration works on the King William Street frontage are slated for a February start. The entire conservation project is expected to span a duration of 16 months.
However, residents and tourists can be rest assured the Adelaide Town Hall will continue its regular operations. Whether it’s hosting events or facilitating Council proceedings, the building’s doors will remain open to the public. Although, there might be occasional restrictions to balcony access during the course of the restoration.
The comprehensive conservation initiative encompasses various critical tasks, including cleaning, addressing cracks and stone damage, repointing mortar, and rectifying water drainage concerns. These works are solely focused on the external façade and there will be no works to the interior of the Town Hall.
Lord Mayor Jane Lomax-Smith said this was an important project to preserve the historical and cultural significance of the building.
“The City of Adelaide is the oldest council in Australia and as custodians of this exquisite building, it is our responsibility to invest in the conservation of the Adelaide Town Hall,” Lord Mayor Jane says.
“While there will be some temporary scaffolding on the exterior of the building, the public’s access will be maintained throughout the project and the Town Hall will be open for events and Council business.”
Duratec State Manager Jonathan Barrett said Duratec is excited and honoured to be trusted with the restoration of the Adelaide Town Hall.
“Heritage buildings are unique pieces of our history and restoration work needs to be performed in a way that maintains the original fabric of the building,” Jonathan says.
The Adelaide Town Hall was constructed in 1866 using South Australian resources and stone from Tea Tree Gully, and was deemed the most expansive municipal structure South of the Equator at the time.
Over the years, it has welcomed a diverse array of dignitaries and celebrities, ranging from members of the Royal Family to global pop icons like the Beatles, Cher, and even the Dalai Lama.
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