Devonport Police Station is to get a front desk

Astor room to enable events to run at the same time

Mechanical and electrical – a heating and ventilation strategy is being designed to improve the customers’ experience of the building. A separate programme will see the installation of a new air source heat pump.

Cabinet Member for Finance, Councillor Mark Shayer said: “We have this amazing building, but we need to make more of it. There has been lots of discussions with event organisers and promoters so that the improvements work for them as well as ensuring the building’s amazing interior is not compromised.

“We see this an investment – not just in the city, but the city centre, a feel good factor for residents of all ages who can enjoy a wider variety of events – and it will bring in an income for the council.”

The Guildhall, was originally built in the 1870s but reduced to a shell during the Blitz.

It was one of the few damaged buildings to be restored rather than rebuilt, with the restoration continuing through most of the 1950s.

Historic England describe it as a ‘rare and unusually rich example’ of an unaltered `Festival of Britain’ interior and there are some glorious touches including an impressive black and white marble staircase in the centre. There’s a mural depicting famous sons of Plymouth and the city’s maritime history and three stunning 1950s chandeliers.

The project is expected to cost £3.9m comprising £2.45m which was allocated in the council’s capital budget in March 2021 and £1.5m from the Future High Streets fund.