Plans for Grade II-listed civic hall revamp revealed

Architects have unveiled plans for the grade II-listed Barnsley landmark The Civic.

Norton Mayfield Architects are working pro-bono on the site, and plan to launch an extended gallery, a new theatre, cafe and reopening its historic front doors on Eldon Street.

The Civic is operated by an independent arts charity, was built in 1877. After a partial refurbishment it was given over to Barnsley Civic Enterprises and reopened in 2009 with a third of the building unfinished and unused.

The recession struck and BCE was unable to make further investments. However The Civiv launched a £5m fundraising appeal to complete the renovation and become a destination for the arts by 2023.

Alastair Norton, director of Norton Mayfield Architects said: “We are pleased to support The Civic in achieving their aspirations to restore and renovate this wonderful building. We’ve worked carefully, alongside consultants from Turner and Townsend, to protect the heritage of the existing building and untap its full potential.

“The Civic promises to be an even greater cultural and civic asset for Barnsley, and we are delighted to be part of its transformation.”

Helen Ball, CEO of The Civic, said: “The Civic represents the heart of Barnsley. With the help of Norton Mayfield Architects, our vision is to reinstate the historic main entrance and re-connect it to the town and its people, returning The Civic to its rightful former glory.

“We can only do this with the generosity of the business community, philanthropists and individuals, who we are asking to support our £5m campaign.”

Sir Michael Parkinson is one of the high profile figures backing the campaign.

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