Rival applications over Shirehall’s future lodged with Historic England

Calls have been made for Shropshire Council’s condemned headquarters to be declared an historic asset and protected from future demolition – but the authority has other plans.

The council has applied to Historic England for a Certificate of Immunity from Listing (COI) for Shirehall, which it plans to move out of by 2023.

While future uses for the site are explored, a COI would guarantee that the building could not be added to the National Heritage List for England or be served with a Building Preservation Notice.

But the application only came to light after members of the public lodged applications with Historic England for the building to be listed, believing the 1960s structure could be of future architectural significance.

Councillors also confirmed they were not told that a COI had been applied for.

Shrewsbury resident Jessicah Kendrick is one of at least three people to have applied for the building to be granted listed status.

She criticised the council for its lack of transparency in applying for a COI and failing to consult with members of the public.

Ms Kendrick said: “The Shirehall was built by architect Ralph Crowe and the structural engineer for the building was Ove Arup, founder of Arup  – a global multi award winning construction group.

“He is widely considered to be the foremost engineer of his era. Ove Arup has worked on many world famous buildings, including the Sydney Opera House which remains one of the world’s most iconic buildings.

“Shirehall is a wonderful example of 60s architecture and is well constructed.

“The issue of it being run down comes from a total lack of maintenance and refurbishment. This is the fault of the council and not of the building.”

Ms Kendrick highlighted the demolition of Tudor buildings during the 1950s and 60s when they were considered out of fashion, but now would be of architectural merit.

She said: “It too soon for us to say whether or not the Shirehall building is of historic importance and that it is foolish and short-sighted to suggest its demolition.”

She also highlighted a campaign launched earlier this month by leading architects in the Architects’ Journal, arguing that it is better for the environment for old, energy inefficient buildings to be refurbished rather than demolished.

Ms Kendrick said the Royal Institute of British Architects and the Twentieth Century Society had both been notified.

Council leader Councillor Peter Nutting said: “Shirehall is no longer fit for purpose for its current use.

It generates around 1,044 tonnes of carbon per year and in the financial year 2019/20 running costs associated with the building were £1.3m, including £353,000 per year for gas and electricity.

“Last month, councillors agreed that the council will move out of Shirehall by 2023, and we now need to put in place plans in place to vacate and sell Shirehall, which will include determining the value of the site and the disposal/demolition cost.

“The site is a key gateway to Shrewsbury and it is important that we prepare the site for flexible use options for future uses to support the local area and the adjacent communities.

“As part of this work we have requested that Shirehall is granted a certificate of immunity from listing, which will enable the council to explore a range of future options and obtain the best value for the site.

“This would mitigate the risk of the building and site being left without occupiers and/or use for a prolonged period of time and In doing so add value to the public purse and maximising the amount of money that can be reinvested in front line services.”

Members of the public have until Friday to register their views with Historic England before the consultation closes.

After this, Historic England will give its recommendation on whether the building should be listed or granted a COI to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport which will make the final decision.