Calls to replace 'eyesore' Guildhall fencing

Metal fencing around Peterborough's Guildhall has been described as an "eyesore"

Calls have been made for metal fencing around a city centre's Guildhall to be removed and replaced with "attractive boarding".

Peterborough City Council first put up temporary metal fencing around the landmark in Cathedral Square at the end of last year to stop people from climbing its staircase and vandalism.

The council said "we will be carrying out specialised works to help preserve the building", but no work timelines had been revealed yet.

In the meantime, Pep Cipriano, chief operating officer for Peterborough Positive, suggested installing boarding with a vinyl wrap instead, featuring the history and images of the Guildhall, which dates from 1671.

The council has not set a timeline on the preservation works for the Guildhall, which faces the city's cathedral

Concerns around the appearance of the historic building were first reported in the Peterborough Telegraph.

This week the council replaced broken fencing after safety concerns were raised by Mr Cipriano, who fears the current look harms the appeal of Cathedral Square.

"I got lots of feedback from business that it [the fencing] is an eyesore," he said.

"If the window for the works to start is longer than anticipated, then I am happy to work with the Peterborough Civic Society and local photographer Chris Porsz – to come up with a vinyl wrap of the history of the building alongside pictures from down the years which is better to look at, and educational as well.

"Replacing the broken fencing is a step in the right direction. Hopefully other works can start soon too."

The Grade II* listed Guildhall originally held a market underneath, with the first floor used for municipal meetings until the Town Hall opened

Toby Wood, vice-chairman of Peterborough Civic Society, said: "If you are a visitor, you come to the Cathedral Square and see the magnificent cathedral and then see this Guildhall but are met with that horrible metal fencing.

"It spoils the look... makes it look run down even."

Last year the council, which was then led by the Peterborough First group, started a public survey to explore possible future uses for the Grade II* listed building.

A council spokesperson said: "We are fully committed to maintaining the Guildhall as part of our ongoing work to ensure the city centre is a vibrant, welcoming place for shoppers, residents and visitors alike."