Scaffolding up to repair roof of Basingstoke register office

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council said the project will replace the roof of the 18th century Goldings building at the town centre Civic Campus.

The work started on November 18 and is expected to last four months.

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The building, in London Road, is home to Basingstoke’s Registration Office, responsible for births, marriages and deaths.

A spokesperson for the borough council said: “Access to the buildings on the Civic Campus, including Hampshire County Council’s Registration Office and Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s offices remain largely unaffected.”

They added: “There was no damage to the roof. The age of the roof at Goldings means that this project is part of planned work to maintain the fabric of the building.”

The council also reassured couples who are getting married at the venue that the scaffolding will not ruin photos. 

It said the scaffolding facing War Memorial park is at roof level only. 

A spokesperson for the council said: "Photos that show the ground and first floors would be unaffected. There are also many opportunities inside Goldings and in the nearby War Memorial Park for photos."

A planning application for the work was approved on November 15. 

It said: "The Goldings is a heritage asset of considerable importance, reflecting the historical, architectural, and cultural development of Basingstoke.

"The proposed roof replacement works are necessary to address the poor condition of the existing roof tiles, which are causing leaks and risking damage to the building's internal fabric.

"These works have been designed with the agreement of the Conservation Officer to ensure that the historical integrity of the building is maintained.

"By implementing appropriate mitigation and enhancement measures, the estate can continue to serve as a valuable community resource and a testament to Basingstoke’s rich heritage."