70% conservation of Bradlaugh Hall complete

LAHORE:The Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA) was working on the conservation of Bradlaugh Hall, located on Rattigan Road Lahore.

Established in late 19th century, Bradlaugh Hall was a significant element of cultural heritage as it was served as a public forum where several political leaders including Allama Iqbal, Maulana Zafar Ali Khan, Dr Muhammad Ashraf, Mian Iftikhar ud Din and Malik Barkat Ali visited and spoke for the independence. This hall was credited to Charles Bradlaugh, a British Member of Parliament (MP), esteemed for his advocacy of Indian self-governance.

In this project, the documentation and structural assessment have been completed, along with the external work, including the façade treatment. Additionally, illegal encroachments near the Hall have been removed. The work on the roof, including the installation of sandwich panels and the replacement of girders, has also been finished.

However, the interior phase, which includes woodwork, the installation of toilets, signage, parking, and drainage, is still in progress. The scope of the project also covers electrical works and illumination at Bradlaugh Hall to enhance its appearance. Furthermore, the hall will be kept open and accessible for the public so that they can visit and observe the architectural landmark of colonial period. The conservation project is almost 70pc completed whereas the exact completion of this project is expected in June 2025, said Najam ul Saqib, Director Conservation and Planning WCLA. He said “Historical landmarks like Bradlaugh Hall are a very important element of region’s heritage because of the functions they have played in the past. Bradlaugh Hall has worked as a public sphere in colonial period for political meetings and diplomatic delegations. Therefore, we have been dedicating substantial efforts to restore this place for future generations.