The structure cost thousands of pounds and is made of reinforced half-inch thick glass backed with chrome handrails. It is part of a £1 million refurbishment of the 19th century listed building that has taken almost a year to complete.

District council planners wanted to put wrought iron railings along steps to the entrance in keeping with the hall’s image, but English Heritage refused and ruled the glass entrance would be more fitting.

The building is due to open in November.

Petition organiser Ron Hawkesford, a 70-year-old retired engineer from the town, today claimed the glass entrance was completely out of character with the town hall and voiced fears it would attract vandals.

There are also worries the disabled ramp entrance would be a magnet for skateboarders.

Mr Hawkesford, from Brecknell Rise, has now started a petition. He said: “They are an absolute monstrosity and we want them taking down now.”

Read the full story in the Express & Star

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