Heritage-style security gates are to be installed at Stoke Town Hall as part of measures to tackle anti-social behaviour and improve safety around the historic building.
The work at the portico on Glebe Street is scheduled for Sunday 6 September. A temporary pavement closure will be in place immediately outside the entrance, with the installation expected to be completed within the day.
Historic feature to be restored
Stoke-on-Trent City Council says gates formed part of the Grade II* listed Town Hall's original design before being removed several decades ago. The replacements have been designed to complement the building's character while providing additional security.
The portico is no longer the Town Hall's main entrance, but its doors are still used for civic events, weddings and other functions.
A second heritage-style gate will be installed between the Civic Centre and The Glebe public house. It will not be attached to the historic walls and is intended to provide a secure area for staff entering and leaving outside normal operating hours.
Measures to protect the stonework
The council says the gates will be fixed into mortar joints rather than the stonework. Its heritage architect has worked with the installation team to agree a method intended to protect the building's significant features.
Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration, said the project forms part of wider work to reduce anti-social behaviour and improve safety in public spaces across the city.
The scheme is being funded through the Government-backed Design Out Crime programme.
