City Hall conversion could cost £750k before work
A council has warned that plans to turn a portion of a notable municipal building into a hotel might cost £750,000
before work even starts.
The funds will be used by Norwich City Council to develop plans to turn a portion of its City Hall headquarters into a
hotel, conference centre, office space, or residential apartments.
However, several council members have expressed worries about the huge amount and enquired as to how it will be
used.
The council claims that the building’s layout is “outdated and inefficient” and that its renovation would assist
generate much-needed funding.
It has previously issued a warning that it must save more than £9.5 million over the next five years due to severe
financial challenges.
According to Mike Stonard, the head of the Labour council, the reconstruction might generate up to £102
million in economic benefits.
He went on to say: “There are many reasons to adore our magnificent structure, and we must not only
ensure that it is suitable for the future but also maximise our treasured resource for the city.
“We are in the early stages of that journey and now have some viable options we can consider taking to
the next stage of exploration and design.”
‘Iconic building’
Officials say the £750,000 would be used to cover professional fees related to the scheme and to help
outline the case for the redevelopment.
Lucy Galvin, leader of the Green group at the council, said: “City Hall is an iconic building which belongs
to the people.
“The building must be made appropriately accessible, the plans and expenses must be thoroughly
examined, and the people of Norwich must be actively involved.
“Paying external consultants vast sums may not really be the answer especially if it remains unclear to the public how and when they can have input.”
The development of City Hall has been contemplated several times but has never materialised.
To decide whether to move further with the usage of funds, council members will meet on October 10.
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