Iconic Town Hall's Façade Could Get Upgrade As Part Of 'Much-Needed' Restoration

The street-facing façade of an iconic Isle of Wight town hall could get an upgrade.

County Hall has applied for Listed Building Consent to refurbish Sandown Town Hall’s frontage on Grafton Street, repairing its render and repainting it as part of a ‘much-needed’ restoration.

The Neo-Classical style building dates from 1869 and is Grade II listed due to its special architectural or historic interest, according to Historic England.

An ‘extensive programme’ of ‘structural and cosmetic repairs’ is currently underway as part of plans to give the hall a new community use, according to Isle of Wight Council.

A youth programme serving over 200 young people per week is due to open in the Autumn, offering activities such as sports and study sessions as well as access to a sound studio for music practice.

Upgrading the façade is an ‘important part’ of the restoration, being the ‘first thing people view as they arrive’, according to a statement submitted by consultants ERMC.

The statement continues:

“It is also important for the uplift to Grafton Street and the Sandown community as a whole.

“The façade has cracked in areas allowing for water to ingress into walls. This needs to be fixed, to avoid further damage to the building.

“The building is 150 years old; there are significant defects with the fabric of the building arising from both its age and the poor quality of previous alterations.

“Work has been ongoing in 2024/5, and the town hall, basement and toilet facilities have been restored and upgraded. However, a large amount of work is still needed.”

County Hall’s public consultation on application 25/01104/LBC closes on September 15 and a decision has been scheduled for September 30.