Not just any old iron! Evening Lecture

Manchester Library and Information Service

Manchester Central Library

Manchester Town Hall has been closed since January 2018 for an extensive restoration programme that will repair and upgrade the building to modern standards. The work will include the conservation of many of its original heritage features. Our series of Heritage Lectures aims to shine a light on some of the fascinating work that’s been going on behind the scenes. We’ve already heard about the work on our paintings, mosaic flooring, clock, stained-glass windows, organ, furniture, the Albert Memorial, Albert Square and the original lighting. Join us in Central Library for a chance to hear from Will Jones and Peter Meehan of Heritage Project Contracts. The lecture is free to attend but please book your place. In this lecture we’ll be learning about the conservation, preservation and restoration of historic ironwork, some of which can be seen around the building: from the dizzying heights of the golden ball that tops our clock tower and cast iron brattishing on our complex series of roofs, to the enormous – and very cumbersome - portcullis gates in the basement. Tuesday 23 September2025, The Performance Space, Central Library Session #1 - 12.45pm arrival for a 1pm start (ends 2.15pm) Session #2 – 5.15pm arrival for a 5.30pm start (ends 6.45pm) The lecture is free but you’ll need to book your ticket online.