Newtown Old Town Hall Repair Work Approved After ‘Significant Cracks’ Appear

An iconic Isle of Wight municipal building dating from the 17th century will undergo repairs after the appearance of ‘significant cracks’ and ongoing movement.

County Hall granted Newtown Old Town Hall’s owner, the National Trust, Listed Building Consent for a works scheme to ensure the Grade II* structure on Town Lane is secured into the future.

Grade II* buildings are particularly important buildings of more than special interest, representing around 5.8 per cent of listings.

The Town Hall is important to the wider history of the National Trust, being the second building restored and then donated to the charity, according to a Heritage, Design and Access Statement submitted by The Goddard Partnership.

Approved plans include groundworks to remedy structural movement at the Town Hall as well as internal and external works, including a chimney removal and rebuilding and brickwork, roof and joinery repairs.

County Hall’s decision report for proposal 25/01848/LBC says the most significant part of the works involves the provision of a concrete raft under the north side of the building.

“All works are repairs and with the exception to the concrete raft, they comprise localised works using appropriate materials and techniques,” it says.

“The highest level of intervention is the concrete raft but the only potential harm that would result from these works involves the removal of the stone slabs in the basement and relaying.

“A record of their existing position would be made but despite this and careful removal, there would inevitably be some damage. However, it is likely to be minimal, and this harm is outweighed by the benefit of stabilising the building.”

Four conditions are attached to the consent for legal and planning policy compliance, protecting the building and ensuring work is in keeping with its special historic and architectural interest.