One of Whitby’s most recognisable landmarks has been safeguarded for future generations, following the completion of a £1.3 million restoration project.
The programme of works has secured the future of the historic Grade II*-listed Old Town Hall and brought it back into public use. The building, which dates back to the 18th century, had deteriorated significantly due to age and weathering, with further damage uncovered once restoration works got under way — without intervention, its condition would have continued to worsen, putting one of Whitby’s most important historic landmarks at risk.
The project included extensive repairs to the building’s clock tower and roof, alongside restoration of the stonework and mortar on its façade and columns. The first floor, unoccupied since 2017, has also been refurbished and modernised, creating a flexible new venue capable of hosting cultural activities, exhibitions and events throughout the year. An official reopening event is being organised, with a date to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
Councillor Mark Crane, North Yorkshire Council’s deputy leader, whose responsibilities include economic development and regeneration, said: “The completion of this project is fantastic news for Whitby and everyone who cares about the town’s rich heritage.”
He added: “The Old Town Hall is one of the area’s most recognisable buildings, and for generations it has been a focal point at the heart of Whitby’s community. This investment was about preserving its legacy, securing its future and also bringing a much-loved landmark back into active use — creating a high-quality space that can host cultural activities and community events all year round.
“He continued: “”We hope this can attract more visitors to the town, driving footfall and providing a boost for local businesses and the wider economy. Without this intervention, the condition of the building would have continued to deteriorate, putting an important part of the town’s history at risk. I’m therefore delighted that we have been able to restore and repurpose it to a high standard.”
Still standing in 100 years
The project was funded by North Yorkshire Council alongside money awarded to Whitby through the Government’s Towns Fund. Market traders, temporarily relocated to the Dock End area while the works took place, are due to return to the Market Place in time for the August Bank Holiday weekend.
Councillor Neil Swannick, who represents the Whitby Streonshalh division, said the restoration would “safeguard such an important part of Whitby’s history” while allowing residents, community groups and visitors to use the first-floor space. Councillor Phil Trumper, who represents Whitby West, said the project “was started to ensure that the Old Town Hall will still be standing 100 years from now,” adding that “the building looks stunning.”
Whitby town councillor Linda Wild, a member of the project’s steering group, said it had been “a privilege to be involved in the restoration,” and that any works had needed to be “respectful to the Old Town Hall’s historic character” while creating an accessible space for the community.
The project’s design was led by architects and engineers at Align, the council’s property consultancy. Align’s managing director, Ron Walton, said the team had “worked closely with the council throughout the project to make sure this important and historic building has been carefully restored in the best way possible.”
