Latest news with #MootHall
BBC News
12-05-2025
- General
- BBC News
Colchester Moot Hall to reopen after ceiling restoration
A Grade I-listed hall is due to reopen in the summer following a £350,000 restoration of its Victorian-built Moot Hall in Colchester has been closed to the public since early 2023 after structural assessments revealed the fibrous plaster ceiling posed a safety city council said the restoration had taken almost "9,500 hours of skilled craftsmanship" over a five-month hall, on the second floor of the town hall, is renowned for its high ceiling, stained glass windows, and custom-built Norman and Beard organ. The Town Hall was built in 1898 by architect John Belcher but surveys carried out in 2023 uncovered critical issues in the plaster's support system, evidence of water damage and condensation, structural weaknesses, debris build-up, and added loads from ceiling's extensive restoration programme began following a formal application to Historic England, along with comprehensive bat and owl surveys to safeguard protected species. Work included tying individual ornate ceiling panels to the roof structure with thousands of metres of stainless-steel wire and creating 56 new plaster panels cast to match the hardboard panels in the central insulation was also laid in two layers along the ceiling length to maintain traditional building methods and improve energy project was carried out using tower scaffolds and internal ceiling access, "demanding intense physical effort from the restoration team", the council leader, Liberal Democrat David King, said the "transformation" was "a restoration fit for future generations". He praised the work of those involved and said: "Their efforts have ensured that the Moot Hall will once again serve as a civic and cultural landmark for our community."Elizabeth Hirst, head of Hirst Conservation which carried out the restoration, described the project as "challenging" but said it had been "a privilege" to work on Moot Hall's fully open, the hall is expected once again to host weddings, concerts, and civic events. Follow Essex news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
Daily Mirror
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Beautiful UK seaside town with charming high street named among the best
This little-known town in Suffolk is nestled between the picturesque River Alde and a stunning stretch of coastline, featuring a classic high street that is filled with thriving local businesses This breathtaking seaside town is a little escape from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding villages, providing an abundance of experiences and activities for visitors and residents alike. Aldeburgh in Suffolk is right in the middle of the River Alde and a stunning stretch of coastline overlooking the North Sea. This alluring town offers a whimsical escape from neighbouring towns and has even been named the best seaside spot by The Times. The little pebbled beach features a stunning four-metre-high sculpture of a scallop, created by popular Suffolk-born artist Maggi Hambling entirely of steel by Aldeburgh craftsmen Sam and Dennis Pegg, providing picture opportunities like no other shoreline. Steeped in charm and history, Aldeburgh is a town where every corner tells a story. Its colourful Georgian houses line the seafront, creating a picture-postcard setting that's every bit as charming as it is authentic. The town's heritage as a former Tudor port is still evident today, with historic buildings like Moot Hall, a 16th-century timber-framed town hall that now houses the Aldeburgh Museum. While in town, boutiques filled with clothes, art, and antiques line the high street, alongside independent bookshops and a classic cinema. The high street is also home to culinary delights, from the renowned fish and chips to fine bistro dining, pizzas, and, of course, it's not a beach town without some ice cream! When visiting the town, be sure to stop by O&C Butcher. This 130-year-old clothes store has everything you need and more to kit yourself out for a weekend on the coast, selling beloved UK brands like Gant and Barbour. You can even treat your little furry friend to a matching coat, too! Aldeburgh is well known for its link to Benjamin Britten, the founder of the Aldeburgh Festival, which takes place annually in June. The Aldeburgh Festival has been a pilgrimage for lovers of classical music and culture since 1948. The town is also praised for its outstanding fish and chips. The local fish and chip shop has been in operation since 1967 and has received an overwhelming number of positive reviews from national publications, ranking it as one of the best in all of Britain. There's lots to see and do in Aldeburgh, the historic Quatrefoil Martello Tower is a great immersive experience for the whole family, a relic of coastal defence from the Napoleonic Wars. Walkers have a wealth of enjoyable routes available in and around the town. Among these, the 9.7km Aldeburgh Circular Walk stands out as a popular choice, rated as moderate. This beautiful trail leads you along the striking Suffolk coastline and through the adjacent heath and meadow. Whether you're leaving the city, enjoying the local attractions, or simply looking to try the local chippy, Aldeburgh is an ideal spot for a family staycation.
