£1.3m restoration completes at Whitby’s grade two-listed Old Town Hall

The extensive programme of works has restored the 18th-century landmark and brought it back into public use, following concerns over its deteriorating condition caused by age and weathering.

Further damage was uncovered once restoration works began, highlighting the need for significant intervention to prevent further decline.

Specialist work to three of the 16 sandstone columns were greenlit only last month, following a structural survey that identified sections of the historic masonry as being in ‘critical condition’.

The project also included repairs to the building’s clock tower and roof. The first floor, which had remained unused since 2017, has also been refurbished to create a flexible venue for cultural activities, exhibitions and community events.

Renovation work on the building began in 2025 and has been funded through a £17.1m Towns Fund allocation awarded to Whitby by the government, in partnership with North Yorkshire Council.

During the works, market traders were temporarily relocated to the Dock End area of the town and are now due to return to Market Place for the August Bank Holiday weekend.

The project’s design was led by architects and engineers at Align, the council’s property consultancy.

Cllr Mark Crane, deputy leader of North Yorkshire Council with responsibility for economic development and regeneration, said: “The completion of this project is fantastic news for Whitby and everyone who cares about the town’s rich heritage.

“The Old Town Hall is one of the area’s most recognisable buildings, and for generations it has been a focal point at the heart of Whitby’s community.

“This investment was about preserving its legacy, securing its future and also bringing a much-loved landmark back into active use – creating a high-quality space that can host cultural activities and community events all year round.

“We hope this can attract more visitors to the town, driving footfall and providing a boost for local businesses and the wider economy.

“Without this intervention, the condition of the building would have continued to deteriorate, putting an important part of the town’s history at risk. I’m therefore delighted that we have been able to restore and repurpose it to a high standard.”

Ron Walton, managing director of Align, said: “Our team of architects and engineers have worked closely with the council throughout the project to make sure this important and historic building has been carefully restored in the best way possible.

“We are pleased that the project has reached completion and hope the refurbished building will become a valuable asset for residents, businesses and visitors.”