Figure 1: CGI visualisation of the proposed entrance hall and lobby, showing the new central reception area and step-free access route via sesame lift.
What is changing: Right now, arriving at City Hall can be a bit confusing. The main entrance is occasionally closed entirely, redirecting all visitors to the Bethel Street entrance. There's no clear welcome point once inside, and the layout makes it difficult to know where to go.
The proposed plans would allow a new arrival experience to be created:
- A single entrance for all visitors - whether you're accessing council services, attending a meeting or simply visiting
- A new central reception area – with clear sightlines and an obvious welcome point
- A more open, connected layout – linking the entrance directly to the new civic living room, located behind the Mayor's Wall in the current lobby when accessing City Hall from the front steps.
