WORK to lift off the final part of the huge roof of Bradford’s Grade-II listed St George’s Hall is now complete, two weeks ahead of schedule.

The removal formed the latest part of Bradford Council’s £8.5m renovation and modernisation of the theatre, which began in June.

The work has taken just four weeks rather than the expected six, despite complications with the discovery of problems with work undertaken when large parts of the gaping roof were replaced in 1983 after it was destroyed by fire.

In taking up the roof, contractors found that the majority of the rafters needed to be removed and replaced or reinstalled.

All the works, materials and methods of installation will be checked by the Council’s conservation officer to ensure it complies with the expectations associated with listed building status.

In order to meet current building regulations, there will also need to be additional work to the roof including new lightning protection, a new access hatch, and the installation of a new harness safety system to make it safe for workers to maintain the roof in future.

Work to fully restore the roof is expected to take around six months.

Senior project manager Christophe Hamard said: “We are on schedule and budget so we are pleased with the progress so far.

"As with all heritage buildings, there is always an element of the unknown. This is why when planning projects such as this we always make sure we build-in allowances.

"People may not be able to see the work we are doing to restore this beautiful building, but this behind-the-scenes work is important and will help to secure the building for future generations."