Town Hall, Westoe Road

1905-10. Ernest E Fatch architect.
A fine example of an "Edwardian Baroque" public building. Grand and self assured.
Ashlar, 2 storeys above a high semi-basement and 13 bays long to Westoe Road.
Each end bay broken forward as a pavillion, framed by coupled pilasters and crowning
pediment. The 3 central bays break forward, have an attic storey, and form a grand
centrepiece. The entrance, with a semi-circular headed window above is framed by
coupled columns and a broken pediment. Reclining figures on the pediment support
a trophy on the apex. The ground floor windows have semi-circular heads. Heavily
rusticated base whose rustications are taken up to the springing line of these
windows. From this line rises the pilaster order.
The symmetry of this composition is badly upset by a grand tower rising above the
north pavillion.
A tall, plain stage with clock faces is crowned by an octagonal turret with columns
supporting gigantic figures.
Competition held in 1901 and won by Fatch. A second, limited competition held in
1902 for a more costly building and again won by Fatch.
Foundation stone laid 1905, building opened 1910.
Good elevation to Beach Road and Broughton Road. Elaborate to Beach Road and simple
and restrained to Broughton Road. LISTED GRADE 2