- The study will safeguard the Town Hall’s historic character while exploring new ways the building can support civic, cultural, and community life
- The project aligns with Tamworth’s town centre regeneration priorities
- Experienced architects Stephen George + Partners leading the work
Tamworth Borough Council has appointed one of the UK’s leading architectural practices, Stephen George + Partners LLP (SGP), supported by a specialist project team, to carry out a comprehensive feasibility study into the future use of the borough’s Grade II* listed Town Hall.
The study is funded through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), which is a planning charge that councils can apply to contribute towards new infrastructure to support developments in the area.
The Town Hall, built in 1701 and standing proudly on Market Street, is one of Tamworth’s most iconic landmarks. As part of the council’s commitment to protecting heritage while supporting town centre regeneration, the study will explore how the building can continue to serve as a civic, cultural and community asset for generations to come.
The study will review the current condition of the Town Hall, examine its capacity and limitations, and develop a range of options that balance heritage protection with opportunities for new uses. The team will also work with local residents, community groups, heritage advisors, staff and councillors to make sure community voices are at the heart of the process. They will embed this stakeholder feedback into the feasibility study, so final recommendations are informed and balanced.
SGP has a strong track record in revitalising civic and heritage assets, including sensitive work on Grade II listed buildings such as Halifax Bus Station and Leicester Synagogue. Their team includes conservation-accredited architects and specialists in sustainable, accessible design.
Interest in this project was extremely high, with more than 30 architectural firms attending site visits and 30 Invitation to Quote (ITQ) submissions received. This level of response demonstrates the strong professional appetite to work on the Town Hall.
Councillor Lewis Smith, portfolio holder for people services, engagement, leisure and heritage, said: “Tamworth Town Hall is one of our town’s greatest treasures and has stood in Tamworth for over 300 years. This feasibility study is more than protecting bricks and mortar – it’s about making sure the building plays a meaningful role in our community for years to come.
“The level of response from specialist architects has helped us to secure what we believe to be a high-quality and best-value supplier.
“With expert partners and strong community involvement, we will identify a sustainable future that honours our heritage while supporting our vision for a vibrant, thriving town centre.”
Sue Eyre, lead architect at Stephen George + Partners, said: “As local architects, this project is especially significant for us, and we are delighted to have been appointed.
“At SGP, we have a proven track record with civic and heritage assets, as well as significant expertise in feasibility studies and community projects, and we look forward to working closely with the council, stakeholders and residents.
“This is a key opportunity to deliver meaningful placemaking in the town centre, ensuring the Town Hall remains both a proud landmark and a valuable community asset for the future.”
This project will make sure Tamworth Town Hall remains both a proud symbol of the borough’s past and an adaptable space for future generations. By working together with local people, heritage experts and regeneration partners, Tamworth Borough Council is setting the stage for a Town Hall that not only celebrates history but actively contributes to the town’s cultural and economic renewal.