Historic stained-glass fragments from Manchester Town Hall, a Grade I listed Victorian landmark, have been given a new lease of life as a unique jewellery collection. Jeweller Lin Fletcher has transformed pieces of the original 150-year-old glass into earrings, pendants, and cufflinks, offering Mancunians a chance to own a piece of their city's heritage.
The iconic building, which serves as the ceremonial headquarters for Manchester City Council, has been closed since 2018 for an extensive restoration project estimated to cost around £520 million. During this renovation, the condition of the more than 4,000 original windows, installed when the Town Hall was built in 1878, was assessed. While many pieces were found to be in good condition, others required replacement.
Lin Fletcher recognised the potential in the salvaged and off-cut glass. She meticulously cleaned and reset these fragments, combining them with pieces of specially created authentic replacement glass to craft her collection. Fletcher expressed her motivation, stating she realised the 'waste glass' could be beautifully repurposed, providing a unique souvenir of the much-loved city icon.
A spokesperson for Manchester City Council praised the initiative, describing the jewellery as 'wearable art that celebrates Manchester's heritage'. Councillor Garry Bridges, deputy leader of Manchester City Council, further emphasised that the project breathes new life into the historic stained glass, respecting the original craftsmanship and preserving the town hall's legacy.
Beyond its historical significance, the project also carries a charitable element. Fletcher has confirmed that all profits generated from her new jewellery collection will be donated to the Lord Mayor's charity, We Love MCR. This ensures that the endeavour not only celebrates Manchester's past but also contributes to its present and future through community support.