The historic decorative pipes of the organ in Leeds Town Hall, which were seen by Queen Victoria at the opening of the building in 1858, are being restored to their original design.
Specialist artists Robert Woodland and Debra Miller of The Upright Gilders have been tasked with recreating the original appearance of what the council describe as ‘pipes fit for a queen’.
The restoration is part of a wider scheme which will refurbish Leeds Town Hall preserving a Grade 1 listed public asset and ensuring the building can host large-scale events and concerts.
Cllr Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, culture and education, said: ‘Leeds Town Hall is one of the city’s most beloved heritage assets and has been an iconic part of Leeds’s urban landscape for more than 160 years. It’s crucial that we protect and preserve such an important aspect of our city’s identity and culture.
‘This once-in-a-lifetime project is also about the building’s future and will create a 21st century performance venue that will welcome thousands of visitors every year and generate significant income and investment for the city as a whole.
‘It’s exciting to see this landmark project progressing and to see the past, present and future of Leeds Town Hall coming together.’
