Colchester's Moot Hall closes again due to damaged ceiling

Moot Hall, which closed at the start of the year for vital repair works after sections of the ceiling were declared unsafe, is now set to close again after further problems were identified with the structural integrity of the roof.

The length of the closure has not been specified, but a Colchester Council spokesman said the venue will remain shut for ‘a prolonged period of time’.

It means the mayor-making service, which will see John Jowers become Mayor of Colchester on Wednesday, May 24, will instead take place in the Old Library.

Work on Colchester Town Hall started in 1898 and the building was completed in 1902, but more than 120 years on since its opening the age of the building is now starting to show.

In a statement, a spokesman for Colchester Council said: “Extensive and ongoing structural survey work has revealed significant issues with the Moot Hall that could compromise the safety of the ceiling.

“As a result, we have made the difficult but necessary decision to close the Moot Hall until repairs have been completed.

“While this closure is likely to last for a prolonged period of time, we cannot provide an accurate timeline until we receive the full survey report.”

Other parts of the Victorian building, which is Grade I listed, are expected to remain open.

Plasterwork had to be replaced during repair works in February, when the chimes of the Town Hall clock also had to be temporarily switched off to prevent vibrations from further damaging the area of plasterwork.

A spokesman for Colchester Council added: “As a landmark Grade I listed building, we understand the importance of preserving the Moot Hall's historical significance while ensuring its protection for future generations.

“We also recognise that this closure will be an inconvenience for the public and staff but can assure everyone that we will prioritise this work and complete the repairs as soon as possible.”