Council chiefs insist a historic Hartlepool building remains part of its future plans despite being largely closed to the public for more than a year.

The main auditorium of Hartlepool Borough Hall closed with immediate effect on health and safety grounds in September last year.

The venue, built in 1865 and which has been used for countless concerts, festivals and shows over the years, remains closed to public events and private hire.

Council officials say a series of surveys and assessments are being carried out to determine the full extent and cost of works needed, which currently remain unknown.

placeholder image — The Borough Hall was built in 1865.

But they add it remains “an important asset” and continues to be part of its longer-term ambitions for the town.

A Hartlepool Borough Council spokesperson said: “Whilst the Borough Hall is currently closed to public events and private hire, parts of the building remain open and continue to be used by residents, including the library and employment support services.

“The Council is currently undertaking a series of surveys and assessments of the building. These surveys are intended to provide a clear understanding of the condition of the facility and will help inform the scope of any works that may be required, together with the associated costs.

"As this work is still ongoing, the Council is not yet in a position to confirm the full extent of any necessary repairs, the overall cost implications, or a definitive timetable for reopening.”

The Borough Hall previously closed temporarily in March 2024 after issues were identified with the plaster ceiling.

The council previously allocated £2.3 million to the building as part of its capital investment programme.

As well as the main hall, which can hold up to 1,200 people, the building has meeting rooms, a mayor’s parlour, room for civil ceremonies, and a separate bar and kitchen.

A council spokesperson added: "The Borough Hall remains an important asset for the town and continues to feature within the Council's longer-term ambitions for Hartlepool.

“Once the survey findings have been reviewed, the Council will be able to consider the available options and determine the most appropriate next steps for the future of the building.

"The venue, therefore, remains under active consideration as part of the Council's wider plans for its assets and facilities."