Work to tackle dry rot in one of the city’s most important - but least known - historic buildings is set to begin. 

Issues at Norwich’s Shirehall, which was the city's court for more than 180 years, were first identified in 2019. 

And despite getting permission in November 2022 to carry out repairs, work was delayed until a method of installing scaffolding without causing further damage to the building could be identified. 

Eastern Daily Press: The courtroom in the Shirehall was restored in 2013 (Image: Archant)The courtroom in the Shirehall was restored in 2013 (Image: Archant) (Image: Archant)

Now a Norfolk Museum’s Service spokeswoman said the work on the Shirehall Courtroom will start today (Monday, September 4). 

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A report to Norwich City Councillors has set out what is involved in the project, it said: “The remedial works will include the removal and replacement of affected timbers along with the introduction of steel interventions, to reduce the risk of future outbreaks. 

“Once works start, they will take approximately six months to complete.” 

Eastern Daily Press: The Shirehall courtroom pictured in 1988, the year it closed (Image: Newsquest)The Shirehall courtroom pictured in 1988, the year it closed (Image: Newsquest) (Image: Archant)

When problems with dry rot in the Grade II listed building, in Market Avenue, were first identified it was thought to affect a relatively small area of the wood-panelled Victorian courtroom. 

But subsequent studies revealed it was a "significant" outbreak covering about 25pc of courtroom space.