The ceiling inside a Liverpool landmark is being upgraded for the first time in more than 70 years.
A team of specialists is being brought in to restore the ceiling at St George’s Hall ’s Great Hall as part of a project worth around a quarter of a million pounds. Birkenhead-based specialist conservation company Hankinson Group has been contracted to identify and remove loose paint work, check the plaster is in good condition, carry out remedial works and re-paint any areas which need some additional attention.
This is the latest in a series of touch-ups carried out by Hankinsons on the historic site, going back to 2006 when a team of 60 tradespeople replaced the hall’s existing lead based paint due to health and safety concerns. Since events were postponed as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, work has been carried out on the 168-year-old building, as in 2020 when £140,000 was spent on repairing the hall’s roof, lighting and stonework amid concerns of leaks and broken plasterwork falling onto the ground.
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The work on the 145ft long, 72ft wide ceiling is expected to be completed by May, with the remainder of the Grade I building staying open for visitors. Cllr Harry Doyle, Liverpool Council cabinet member for culture and visitor economy, described St George’s Hall as “a much-loved city gem” that attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year.
He added: “With any building of this age, it’s inevitable areas are going to need a facelift or renovation work, and it’s imperative we take action as soon as possible to remedy the issues and ensure the Hall is in impeccable condition. This work really is an investment in the Hall’s future – we want it to look its best so that we can continue to attract events and activities to the venue, the money from which will be reinvested in the Hall.
“I look forward to seeing the final results and to the doors reopening to this stunning room once again.” Alan Smith, head of heritage, development and preservation, said the work being undertaken would champion and protect one of the city’s key historic assets.
He said: “I’ve spent a huge amount of time over the past decade transforming St George’s Hall into a major event space and wedding venue – and quite simply, people come to the venue because of how it looks. I’m biased, but there really isn’t anything out there that compares to what we have on offer, and as a result we can’t ignore it when restoration work needs to take place.
“I’m delighted this project is under way and we can ensure the Hall maintains its world class standing.”
