Cracks prompt repairs in historic building

An iconic Island municipal building, dating back to the 17th century, could undergo structural repairs after the appearance of ‘significant cracks’ and ongoing movement.

Newtown Old Town Hall’s owner, the National Trust, has applied for Listed Building Consent for a works scheme to ensure the Grade II* structure on Town Lane is secured into the future.

Grade II* buildings are particularly important buildings of more than special interest, representing around 5.8 per cent of listings.

The Town Hall is significant to the wider history of the National Trust, being the second building restored and then donated to the charity, according to a heritage, design and access statement submitted by The Goddard Partnership.

It was given to the Trust in 1933 by the mysterious conservation group known as Ferguson’s Gang, whose unorthodox methods raised funds for the charity.

The Trust’s proposal is for groundworks, to remedy structural movement at the Town Hall, as well as internal and external works, including a chimney removal and rebuilding and brickwork, roof and joinery repairs.

The Goddard Partnership’s statement says: “A series of investigations have been carried out over recent years to generate a comprehensive understanding of the movement which has affected the building for many years.

“This has been prompted by new and significant cracks appearing in the plaster and the external walls, following an internal refurbishment completed as recently as 2019. These new cracks indicate a significant structural concern.

“Dynamic monitoring has shown that this movement is ongoing and, in some areas, it has been found to be progressive, prompting the need for action.”

The IW Council’s public consultation on application 25/01848/LBC at iw.observer/planning-portal finishes on January 30 and a decision is due on February 17.