Local company H Bell & Sons marks completion of Rochdale Town Hall restoration project

H Bell & Sons Ltd played a pivotal role in the final stages of the extensive town hall refurbishment initiative

Local construction firm, H Bell & Sons Ltd played a pivotal role in the final stages of the extensive Town Hall refurbishment initiative in the run up to the grand reopening of Rochdale Town Hall earlier this month.

Among the tasks undertaken, H Bell & Sons ensured that the bar, catering kitchen, adjoining rooms on the upper floors, and the spectacular new Martlet Kitchens dining room on the ground floor were all completed. Overcoming various challenges including restricted access for heavy catering equipment, the team ensured the completion of these vital elements to serve the bustling kitchen which will cater for major events in the magnificent Great Hall.

Working against demanding timelines, the H Bells team transformed rooms from vacant spaces with bare walls into finished, grandiose rooms befitting the Grade 1 listed building's splendour throughout January and February.

Chris Bell, managing director of H Bells & Sons said: “When we were instructed to carry out this project, we knew the deadlines were very challenging but we knew we had the team in place to get the job done. It’s been a very busy eight weeks but we’re incredibly proud of what’s been achieved with the help of our reliable supply chain. The finished project looks amazing and we were delighted to be able to attend the opening events alongside some of the people who helped us achieve this result.

"We are grateful to our Rochdale-based suppliers and partners, including Ferndale Joinery, A Dawson decorators, GTM Electrical, and Winton Flooring. Dawnvale Group and IDL Engineering Services who contributed massively to the completion of the bar and installation of impressive kitchens. Jo Bennet Interiors added the finishing touches, ensuring the Town Hall is presented at its absolute best for the visiting public.

"The security team at the Town Hall also played a crucial role in ensuring that the construction, design, decorating, and management teams could work effectively throughout their eight weeks on-site."

Caroline Storr, strategy and operations manager for property services at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “We have been so impressed with the work of H Bells. Their positive, solutions driven, ‘can do’ attitude allowed us to reach all of our objectives on time. We are delighted with the craftsmanship involved in the realisation of the projects, especially the paintwork in the new Martlet Kitchen restaurant, which is outstanding in its quality.

“We have already had many people comment on how well the bar and new restaurant look. And we look forward to working with H Bells on other projects in the future.”