THE future of an historic local building has been safeguarded and waterproofed for future generations after a complete roof replacement.

Penistone Town Hall houses the Penistone Paramount Cinema, Penistone Masonic Lodge 1462 and local business Matthew Rico Fitness.

Council offices were opened in 1914 alongside the Carnegie Free Library, which had opened a year earlier.

The much-loved local landmark, which is an important piece of Penistone’s heritage, had suffered from many roof leaks over the years.

Specialist contractors removed the existing roof and installed a new one with the work now complete.

The roofing works were part of the Principal Towns and Local Centres Programme, which aims to enhance community facilities and ensure high streets and town centres are thriving.

A council spokesperson said: “We've already invested £5million into our six Principal Towns and ten Local Centres, with another £30million planned over the next five years.” 

Councillor Robin Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, added: “I’m sure Penistone Town Council and the staff and customers of the Paramount Cinema will welcome the completion of these works.

“This is one of the key landmarks in the town and an important piece of its heritage.

“Replacing the roof of the Town Hall and the Paramount shows our commitment to safeguarding Barnsley’s treasured public places.”

The works at the Art Deco-style Penistone Town Hall were carried out by M.A.M. Roofing (Services). They involved installing extra roof timbers, new roof coverings, lead work, fascias, guttering and rainwater pipes.

The new roof itself is of reproduced Welsh slate, in keeping with the original materials.

The Paramount cinema remained open during the works.

Chair of Penistone Area Council, Councillor David Greenhough, said: “We are delighted the works to our much-loved and historic Town Hall have been completed: “Cinema, the arts, and community projects from Penistone and the surrounding area will continue to find a welcoming home in this newly-conserved local landmark."

Plans for the wider refurbishment of the building to extend its public use are at the early design stage.