UPS AND DOWNS AT THE GUILDHALL

Published: 22 June 2010

Photograph (L to R): Richard Harris of architects Brownhill Hayward Brown, Nina Dawes, Chief Executive of Lichfield District Council, Councillor Christopher Spruce, Mayor of Lichfield, Councillor David Smedley, Leader, Lichfield City Council, Andrew Hayward of architects Brownhill Hayward Brown, Dave Pearson of contractor Sandy & Co.

Major improvement works at the historic Guildhall came to an end this week with the opening of a new much larger lift. This was the major element in a scheme of works to improve accessibility throughout the building.

The lift project has been undertaken by the City Council, but was only made possible through the co-operation of the District Council which made available some extra land at the rear of the Guildhall. This allowed for the construction of an external lift shaft with a larger lift car that now serves all floors of the building, including the Ashmole Room which was previously only accessible by stairs.

In declaring the new lift open for use the Mayor, Councillor Christopher Spruce paid tribute to the team who had worked so hard on the project over recent months; including his fellow councillors and officers, achitects Brownhill Hayward Brown; and the construction team from Sandy & Co.

He said "Many problems had to be overcome during the construction process and continual good communication between all parties was vital in ensuring that progress was maintained. The City Council is proud to unveil this much needed addition to the building which has greatly improved the facilities at the Guildhall."