Council Staff Evacuated Amid Health and Safety Fears

Hundreds of council staff are to be 'urgently' moved out of Manchester town hall at a cost of £2.5m after a review of its condition revealed a number of health and safety fears.

As a result of a scoping exercise launched at the end of 2014, the top three floors of the listed landmark are to be evacuated into Peter House, near to the Midland Hotel.

The exercise revealed a lack of suitable escape routes from the upper storeys of the building, meaning 200 staff are now being moved out.

The refurbishment is expected to run into tens of millions of pounds, due to the building's aged electrical systems, the presence of asbestos, and other structural problems.

Deputy council leader Bernard Priest described the building as a "national treasure," and continued:

"Although magnificent, and structurally sound, it is inevitably showing its age and we are reaching a point where certain essential works will be required to safeguard the building for the next 140 years and ensure it meets modern safety and access standards.

"We are responsible custodians of this gem on behalf of present and future Mancunians and will share our plans with the public once they have been produced."

If you have suffered an accident at work due to the negligence of your employer, you may be eligible for compensation. Speak to our team on 0845 603 0708 to find out more.

Work Accident Solicitors