POOR weather this summer has put back Chester Town Hall repair works by an estimated four weeks to April 10.

The £2.8 million extensive programmes of internal and external restoration began in May with the landmark Victorian building clad in scaffolding and mesh all the way to the top of the 180ft clock tower.

A report to Chester City Council’s Executive says the scheme is progressing well on repairing roof work, gutters, stonework, loose balustrades and rotten window frames, but the poor summer weather now means a few more weeks will be needed to finish the external repairs.

Work is also being carried out on the stained glass semi-circular window above the town hall’s main stairwell and the Assembly room roof.

Internal improvements include a new passenger lift, relocating toilets, improving the kitchen facilities and general decoration throughout the building. The programme of internal works is due for completion next September, while the scaffolding will start coming down at the end of March.