Refurbishment work progress at Belfast City Hall has been lauded by the Lord Mayor.

First Citizen Tom Hartley visited the city hall to see first hand the massive refurbishment taking place there.

The iconic building has been temporarily closed since October 2007 while major renovations are underway, including replacing heating, mechanical and electrical systems, asbestos removal, drainage improvements, re-roofing and installing computer network systems.

During his tour of the historic building, Councillor Hartley told of his delight at the progress of work being carried out on the £11 million project - and the fact that it is on schedule to re-open in August 2009.

It is hoped that there may be limited access to some public rooms, such as the Council chamber, by this December or early next year.

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"Great progress is being made with what is essential maintenance work that will ensure this great building is fit for purpose for the next 100 years," he said.

"Happily, there has been minimal disruption to services provided by Belfast City Council and we have done everything possible to ensure that the closure did not inconvenience local residents.

"It makes sense that when City Hall reopens our customer facing services will be located there. I have always been a supporter of encouraging public use of our wonderful City Hall for all to enjoy - whether they are ratepayers or visitors. This massive refurbishment is a once in a century opportunity to plan for the benefit of future generations," he added.

Services previously located in City Hall have moved to Adelaide Exchange, at 24-26 Adelaide Street. Council meetings also take place there during the refurbishment period. A ceremony room for weddings and civil partnerships is located on the ground floor at Adelaide Exchange.

The Lord Mayor, Deputy Lord Mayor, High Sheriff and their staff, are temporarily located in offices at Clarendon Dock.

Although the City Hall building is closed, the grounds have stayed open for visitors and events, including the annual Remembrance Day commemoration and the popular Christmas activities and Continental Market.

(PR/JM)