£1m revamp for 18th Century town hall to begin

A £1m scheme to bring a landmark building in a famous Yorkshire seaside town back into use for the first time in several years is due to get under way next month.

The renovation of Whitby's 18th Century Old Town Hall would see the building used as a community space and a place to host heritage and cultural events all year round, according to North Yorkshire Council.

While the work was carried out, traders at an outdoor market currently held in the building's undercroft would be temporarily relocated, a spokesperson said.

Councillor Mark Crane said he hoped the project would "increase footfall into the town and provide a welcome boost to the economy".

Crane, the council's executive member for open to business, said the Old Town Hall was "a crucial part of Whitby's rich history and heritage".

"Through this scheme we hope to restore, renovate and repurpose the building so it can be a thriving community anchor for local residents, businesses and visitors to enjoy and use," he added.

"Whitby is a place held in the hearts of so many people, and we hope the project can help create and maintain a vibrant and bustling year-round market place."

The project will be paid for by North Yorkshire Council from a £17.1m grant awarded to Whitby as part of the government's Towns Fund, which also includes the creation of a new £10m Maritime Hub.

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