Historic Grade II-listed Jarrow Town Hall deterioration reported - plans lodged to fix it

Plans for "essential" conservation repairs to safeguard the future of Jarrow's historic town hall have been submitted to council development bosses.

South Tyneside Council has lodged an application with its own planning department seeking permission for external brickwork repairs to the Grade II-listed Jarrow Town Hall.

The landmark building, which dates back to 1902, has been the venue for countless civic events over the years and was cemented in social history on October 5, 1936, as the starting point for the Jarrow March.

It now serves a number of important South Tyneside Council customer service functions and also hosts some council community area forum meetings.

The new scheme of repairs for the historic site includes removing "defective or spalled bricks" and "defective render" and the use of replacement bricks matching the original size, colour, texture, and finish.

Other works include "localised repointing and masonry repairs and installation of lead flashing to parapet."

‘Preserve the historic fabric’

A submitted heritage statement notes the works are needed to "address deterioration, prevent water ingress, and preserve the historic fabric using conservation-led, like-for-like repair methods".

The repairs also aim to address "health and safety concerns" and, according to the council, would ensure the "long-term protection of the building".

It was noted that the works would "preserve and enhance historic brickwork" and would "cause no harm to the listed building’s special architectural or historic interest."

A design and access statement confirms the proposed works would not alter the building's existing access arrangements or entrances and that access for repairs would be temporary and managed via scaffolding or mobile platforms.

It was also noted that "temporary measures will be managed to maintain safe access for building users and pedestrians throughout the works, where reasonably practicable".

‘Essential conservation works’

The design and access statement adds: "The proposed brickwork repairs to Jarrow Town Hall represent essential conservation works that will protect and preserve the historic fabric of the listed building.

"The works are limited in scope, use appropriate traditional materials and techniques and have no adverse impact on significance or appearance.

"The proposals are therefore considered acceptable and fully compliant with heritage legislation and planning policy."

A decision on the plan is expected following a council consultation exercise.

For more information on the listed building consent application, visit South Tyneside Council's planning portal website and search reference: 260200