Restoration works at Belfast's historic city hall have been completed.

Main contractor Graham officially handed the building back to council officials this week, after undertaking the landmark £11m refurbishment scheme.

The two-year project involved the replacement of heating, mechanical and electrical systems as well as asbestos removal, re-roofing, drainage improvements, and the installation of computer network systems.

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Belfast Lord Mayor Naomi Long said that while the transfer of staff and services is now beginning, the offices will not be operational until next month.

"Given the scale of this decant, it will be three weeks before city hall is fully up and running," she said.

"Our aim is to highlight the ethos of public ownership of this wonderful building. This is everyone's city hall and it is hoped that residents from all parts of Belfast will join in the fun throughout the reopening celebrations."

(PR/BMcC)