[Millhouse]

Visited with Bigjobs, Over, Sho, Shocktactics, Nonforumguy

I’d checked out the rooftop of Manchester Central Library back in September last year with Gone, when the scaffolding had just started to be erected. A return visit was on the cards, with the intention of getting inside the building and crossing over to the Town Hall Extension for a wander around aswell. After getting in we spent a good few hours strolling around the two buildings. However to my disappointment the majority of the architectural features had been covered up and hidden away to protect them from damage while building work was underway. Regardless the evening quickly turned to the usual banter and dicking about, and we ended up playing about on the steep extension roof.



History:

Manchester Central Library was complete in 1934, and was designed by Vincent Harris. After work had completed on the library, the construction of the Town Hall Extension was immediately commenced. This was also designed by Harris, and features a curved face which runs alongside the curve of the library. It was designed 8 storeys high, with gothic character and made of Darley Dale stone, engraved ornately, and finished with a steeply sloped roof. Intended for use for growing municipal departments, the building also contained a large council chamber and an underground cinema with demonstration rooms. The extension was completed and opened by King George VI in 1938.


The building’s architecture really is stunning, especially within the main hall of the library. It features a large dome outlined with golden bronze colour script.

Central Library


Click for large image

















A few from the Central Library dome







Town Hall Extension










Sho doing his bit towards the restoration process - you can't just turn up and expect to explore for free











Another cracking night, thanks to all involved!