Luton Town Hall

Situated at the bustling junction of Manchester Street, Upper George Street, and George Street in Luton, England, Luton Town Hall stands as a testament to the town's resilience and architectural splendor. This Grade II listed building, completed in 1936, serves as the headquarters of Luton Borough Council and is a significant landmark in the town's history.

The History of Luton Town Hall

The story of Luton Town Hall is one of transformation and rebirth. The original town hall, built in 1846 in the classical style, featured Doric columns and a frieze designed by local architects John Williams and Sons. This building was constructed at a cost of £2,200, excluding the purchase of the land. In 1856, a small tower and clock were added to commemorate the Crimean War, making the town hall a focal point for public meetings and entertainment.

The building was brought into public ownership by the Luton Local Board of Health in 1874 and became the headquarters of Luton Borough Council in 1876. However, on Peace Day, 19 July 1919, the town hall was engulfed in flames during the Peace Day Riots. A crowd of ex-servicemen, unhappy with unemployment and other grievances, clashed with the police and stormed the town hall, setting it on fire. The fire brigade was unable to extinguish the blaze, and by the next morning, the town hall was reduced to ruins.

In the aftermath of the destruction, the town's administration was temporarily relocated to the Carnegie library. The remains of the original town hall were demolished in August 1919, and a statue named Peace, designed by Sir Reginald Blomfield and inscribed with the names of servicemen who died in the First World War, was unveiled in 1922.

The Construction of the New Town Hall

The original site of the town hall was deemed the best location for a replacement, and in 1930, a competition was held to design the new building. Out of 86 entries, the design by Bradshaw Gass & Hope from Bolton was selected. The new town hall, built in a neoclassical style with Art Deco features, was constructed with a steel frame and clad in grey Portland stone. The building was officially opened by The Duke of Kent on 28 October 1936.

The interior of the new town hall was designed to reflect elements from the town's coat of arms, with carvings of the bee, the wheatsheaf, the rose, and the thistle adorning the main entrance. The clock and bells, manufactured by Gillett & Johnston of Croydon, included the heaviest hour bell in the county, weighing approximately two tonnes.

During the Second World War, the clock tower was camouflaged to protect it from air raids, as the bright white stonework would have been highly visible from the air. Despite the wartime challenges, the town hall continued to serve as the headquarters of the borough council throughout the 20th century and remains a vital part of Luton Borough Council's operations today. An extension was added to the building in the 1980s to provide additional office space.

Exploring Luton Town Hall

Visitors to Luton Town Hall can marvel at its architectural beauty and historical significance. The building's grand facade, with its neoclassical and Art Deco elements, is a striking sight. The main entrance, adorned with carvings representing the town's coat of arms, welcomes visitors into a space that reflects Luton's rich heritage.

Inside, the town hall features a variety of rooms and halls used for council meetings, public events, and administrative functions. The intricate interior design, with elements inspired by the town's history, offers a glimpse into the past while serving the needs of the present.

One of the highlights of the town hall is the clock tower, which remains a prominent feature of the building. The clock and bells, still in operation, are a reminder of the town hall's enduring legacy. The tower, which was camouflaged during the war, stands tall as a symbol of Luton's resilience and determination.

The Peace Statue

Outside the town hall, the Peace statue stands as a poignant memorial to the servicemen who lost their lives in the First World War. Designed by Sir Reginald Blomfield, the statue is a significant landmark in its own right, offering a place for reflection and remembrance.

Conclusion

Luton Town Hall is more than just a building; it is a symbol of the town's history, resilience, and community spirit. From its origins in the mid-19th century to its reconstruction in the 1930s, the town hall has played a central role in Luton's story. Today, it continues to serve as a hub for local government and a testament to the town's enduring legacy. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply exploring Luton, a visit to Luton Town Hall is a journey through time, offering insights into the past and a glimpse of the town's vibrant future.