Dating originally from 1823–24, it was designed by Francis Goodwin in the Greek Revival style, and extended in 1869–71 by James Stevens and again in 1991–92.

[2] The first structure on this site was a medieval guildhall which dated back to at least the 13th century[3] and which was connected to a bakehouse on the north side.

[1] The Churchside façade of 1823–24, which Clare Hartwell and co-authors describe as "a little constricted",[1] has a large central portico with four plain (unfluted) Ionic columns topped with a pediment.

[1][2] A wider west front on Chestergate in the same style was added in 1869–71 by James Stevens, a local architect from the town.

[2] The extension of 1991–92, by Conder UK and HLM Architects, is a Georgian-style, two-storey office building, in red brick with faux stone dressings.

[9] Much of the remaining interior, including the Council Chamber and Grand Stair, is attributed to Stevens in around 1870, and is described by Hartwell et al. as "very Victorian."

The building's function rooms can be hired for meetings and events, and are licensed as a venue for civil weddings.