Many heritage buildings languishing in neglect for several years across the State may soon get a new lease of life with the Public Works Department embarking on a major project to conserve these structures.

Among the major projects the PWD will take up is the complete renovation of the majestic Madras High Court main building at a cost of nearly ₹100 crore. Mumbai-based Abha Narain Lambah Associates, which facilitated the Bombay High Court restoration project, is the consultant, and the project will be completed in five years.

The PWD’s confidence in taking up such projects arises from its experience in restoring the 248-year old Kalas Mahal that was ravaged by a major fire in 2012. After a five-year-long struggle, the heritage structure sports a new look now.

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A separate division, ‘Building Centre and Conservation Division (BCCD)’ has been formed to restore such structures under the supervision of the Superintending Engineer (Buildings), Planning and Designs Circle, Chennai and Chief Engineer (Buildings), Chennai division. It will have sub-divisions in Tiruchi, Madurai and Salem as well.

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