Guildhall reopening delayed by structural issues

Further work is needed at the Plymouth Guildhall

Work on an historic building in Plymouth has stalled because of newly discovered structural problems, not contractual ones, the city council has said.

Upgrades to the Guildhall began last September and included updates to the two bars, the Great Hall stage, kitchen and an increased number of toilets.

The project was granted £3.9m from the Government's Future High Street Fund but the council approved a top up of £490,000 in November to replace electrical systems, alarms and refurbishments to the passenger lifts.

Refurbishments on the Grade II listed building were due to be complete by summer but were being held up by a range of structural issues.

Councillor Chris Penberthy said he wanted to end the speculation that the delay on the Guildhall scheme was down to contractors or contractual issues, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

He said a void in the Great Hall had stretched from the foundations to the apex of the building and was found after the walls and panelling were removed for the first time since construction in the 1950s.

Mr Penbethy said it was "effectively a chimney and route for fire to spread".

"We need to make sure our Guildhall is structurally sound and meets current building fire and health and safety standards - we have found that is not currently the case," he said.

Mr Penberthy said other surveys were being carried out to have a clear understanding of future works needed and how it could be done cost effectively.

"We want to have a Guildhall fit for purpose for another 70 years," he said.

He told councillors there would be an update in the new year.