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27 Apr 07Historic Guildhall Restored To Former Glory
One of Poole’s most historic and well-known landmarks, the Guildhall, is reopening its doors to the public – returning the building to the heart of the town’s civic life.
The Grade 2 listed building, which dates back to the 18th Century, has been restored to its former glory by a major renovation project funded by Borough of Poole.
The council has invested more than £800,000 to restore the Market Street building which has stood empty for 16 years.
To celebrate completion of the restoration work, Borough of Poole is holding a Guildhall Open Day on May 14 to allow the public to take a closer look at the newly refurbished building.
The Guildhall will be the home of Borough of Poole’s Registration Services and provide a new venue for weddings, civil partnerships and other civic ceremonies. One of its main features will be a large ceremony room with space to accommodate 120 guests. An eye-catching staircase at the front of the building will provide a grand backdrop for photographs.
Christine Stainton, Superintendent Registrar, Borough of Poole, said: “We have had an enormous response to our move to the Guildhall. There has been great enthusiasm for seeing such an historic building being used for such an apt service.”
The renovated building is due to stage its first-ever wedding ceremony on May 4.
Conservation officers from the Borough of Poole worked with English Heritage 
to ensure that work to restore the Guildhall, built in 1761, retained the original character and fabric of the historic building. Architects, HGP Conservation were appointed by Borough of Poole’s Property Services to take on the challenge of preserving the character of the Guildhall while providing modern facilities. Specialist analysis of the paint, mortar and plasters was undertaken to ensure the building was restored to reflect its history.
Tim Martin, Head of Borough of Poole’s Legal and Democratic Services, which oversaw the project, said: "With the completion of this project Poole has achieved a 21st century Registration Office which will serve the community for years to come at the same time as safeguarding one of the gems in Poole's heritage and putting it back at the heart of civic life."
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