Lendlease has been selected to lead the refurbishment of Manchester Town Hall.

Under the contract, the firm will oversee the project as management contractor, pledging to create 150 apprenticeships and 45 new jobs for local people.

Manchester Town Hall will also be repaired during the work, with parts of the Grade I-listed being restored.

The project will safeguard the building for current and future generations and improve public access, as well as enhancing Albert Square.

Councillor Nigel Murphy, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council, said: "This appointment is an important milestone in the Our Town Hall project to improve access to this icon of Manchester and safeguard it for current and future generations.


"There aren't many construction firms with the expertise and resources required to deliver a heritage project of this scale and complexity on behalf of the city and after a rigorous selection process we are confident that Lendlease offered the best overall value.

"There will also be millions of pounds worth of opportunities for local businesses and people to get involved in the project through this contract, including apprenticeships and other training opportunities."

Neil Martin, Managing Director, Construction at Lendlease, Europe, added: "Manchester Town Hall is one of the city's most recognisable and well-loved landmarks. Lendlease has a long track record of working with heritage buildings and enhancing them for contemporary use and we will bring all of this experience to bear at Manchester Town Hall." 

(CM/MH)