As big local buildings go, Shipley Town Hall doesn't stand out in the attractiveness stakes, being quite a utilitarian structure. Built in 1932 as part of a scheme to provide employment during the Great Depression, it housed the town's Urban District Council, formed in 1895, until 1974 when local government was reorganised and the district became part of Bradford Metropolitan Council. The Town Hall is now used as offices, and a meeting place for Shipley Town Council which was set up in 2020 with limited local responsibilities.
It's not usually open to the public but I took my chance to pop in when it was showing a few old photos of the area, as part of a Heritage Day. There's a small, panelled Council Chamber, with a few historic artefacts displayed and photos of some of the Lord Mayors of Bradford.
The most interesting part, to me, was this topographical map of the former Shipley Urban District. It wasn't dated but must relate to the mid 20th century, perhaps the late 1960s, as far as my limited knowledge could determine. It shows the Shipley Market and Clock Tower, which was built in 1960/61. (I moved into this area in the 1990s, having been in Bingley and Bradford itself prior to that.)
What a fascinating building even though, as you say, it’s not overly attractive. I love the history that comes with such buildings.
ReplyDeleteSince 1978, our local council has been using an old, grade 1 listed Manor House, that dates back to 1550. This week it was put up for sale! And so we are all wondering what will happen next and whether anyone will want to buy it, bearing in mind the cost of the upkeep and the restrictions imposed. Sal ( Sal’s Snippets blog)
I liked seeing the map especially...goodness, the terrain sure does seem more convoluted than I thought!
ReplyDelete