New Delhi: Delhi Tourism & Transportation Development Corporation Ltd (DTTDC) has shared a concept plan with Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), expressing interest in revamping the iconic Town Hall at Chandni Chowk.The development has raised fresh hopes of a new lease of life for the 160-year-old heritage structure. MCD owns the building, and it served as its headquarters from 1866 to 2012.According to the corporation, DTTDC has stated that the redevelopment is expected to align with the Centre’s national mission to create 50 globally competitive tourism destinations.The concept plan includes the development of an immersive museum and interpretation centre showcasing the civic history of Town Hall and Shahjahanabad.
It will feature interactive galleries, archival displays, digital interpretation and multilingual visitor services, along with guided walks within the revamped structure, heritage-aligned retail, curated crafts and food and beverage services.“DTTDC has sought in-principle approval from MCD before proceeding with the project. While the proposal establishes a viable framework for conservation and adaptive reuse, details relating to project cost, funding structure, revenue sharing, operational liabilities and concession period will be finalised after a nod from the standing committee,” said the civic body.
Approval could be given for conservation, adaptive reuse and development of Town Hall for public purposes, along with consent to DTTDC for stakeholder participation, MCD said.While no cost will be incurred by the corporation in carrying out the development, it will continue to remain the custodian of the property.DTTDC has stated that the concept framework for the redevelopment includes a performance-linked, incentive-based destination management model.
Under this, instead of traditional funding based on fixed budgets, stakeholders — such as local authorities, tourism boards or private operators — will receive financial incentives or rewards linked to outcomes like increased tourist footfall, enhanced visitor experience or higher revenue generation.To generate revenue, the agency will levy museum entry fees, offer heritage circuit packages, and organise cultural events and curated heritage experiences, including walks.The project will be executed in four phases after the signing of a tripartite agreement between MCD and the selected concessionaire, and is proposed to be completed within 36 months, covering conservation planning, restoration, fit-out and operationalisation, officials said.The move follows CM Rekha Gupta’s recent visit to Town Hall. She recommended revamping the complex in collaboration with Delhi govt and operating it under a revenue-sharing model, according to sources.Constructed between 1860 and 1863 in the mid-colonial style, the Grade-A heritage structure stands on a 13,735-sq m plot and comprises three buildings. Since 2012, its premises have remained vacant. Multiple redevelopment plans over the years, including proposals for building a hotel, restaurant complex or museum, have not materialised.
