A Suffolk town's residents will be able to have their say on the future of an historic, 16th century Grade I listed hall during a public consultation.

The four-week consultation on the Shire Hall in Woodbridge is set to begin on Friday, June 2 and participants will be able to choose whether they want the building to be restored, renovated or sold.

The hall, built by Thomas Seckford in 1575, is showing the effects of its age and has had issues with the timber within the walls, including dry rot and damp. 

READ MORE: Suffolk residents to decide future of Grade I Shire Hall

Extensive masonry damage was also reported in 2019, with full repair and renovation costs estimated to be between £1.5m and £2m.

The restoration option would involve repairs to the exterior and renovations to the interior of the ground floor to make the building structurally sound.

An alternative is the renovation of the entire building, including the installation of a lift, which would enable the ground floor to be used for community events or possibly as a cafe or art gallery.

READ MORE: Council looking at future options for iconic Grade I listed hall

The final choice is to sell the building, which would mean the town council would have to relocate and could reduce running costs, although this would result in the ongoing rent of new office space and the loss of income through private hire.

Woodbridge mayor Patrick Gillard said: “The Shire Hall is one of the most recognisable and historic buildings in our town – and it is only right the public have their say on its future.

“Unfortunately we find ourselves in a position where we must undertake extensive repairs or sell the building in its entirety.

READ MORE: Woodbridge news

“As stewards of such a symbol of our town’s rich history it is our responsibility to prevent it falling into a state of disrepair.

“We encourage all residents of Woodbridge and the surrounding villages to take part in the consultation.”

Woodbridge residents will receive a consultation document with a QR code they can scan to have their say digitally.

Alternatively, a printed version of the survey will be available or they can visit Shire Hall in person to have their say via a ballot box.