August 2010:  Carter Jonas’ project management team has commenced the first phase of restoration work on the historic Chipping Norton Town Hall.  The project is to repair the stone steps to the entrance, which have shifted over the years, allowing water to seep into its vaulted undercroft.  The Grade II Listed Palladian Revival Hall is the centrepiece of Chipping Norton, one of the most picturesque towns in the Cotswolds, and was built in 1842 by famous architect G S Repton.

Richard Harris of Carter Jonas is leading the project and describes the work:  “The main task is to prevent further water seeping into the building and to do this we are carefully lifting all of the stone steps and replacing their rubble base with a new sub-base that incorporates a damp proof layer.   We will then lift them back into their original positions.” 

The works are being carried out by BHL Builders of Kidlington, Oxfordshire, and are likely to cost in the region of £100,000. The money has come from a grant from West Oxfordshire District Council and major funding from Chipping Norton Town Council.  It is  hoped the works will be completed by Christmas and further phases of restoration work to the Town Hall are likely to include roof repairs and lead work.

While this first phase is going on, Chipping Norton Town Council has asked four local schools to paint panels of the site hoarding to prevent them being an eyesore for such a prominent location. Penhurst School in Chipping Norton is included, which is a nationally renowned school for severely disabled children. 

This project is supported by a grant from West Oxfordshire District Council.