Queensgate: Mechanics institution and Technical College

1881-4. Architect E Hughes. Hammer dressed stone. Ashlar dressings. Hipped slate roof. 3 storeys. Bracketed eaves cornice. Openwork parapet. Strings.

Continuous sill bands. 9 ranges of casements in moulded surrounds with transoms, the first, the 5th and 9th also with mullions. The 3rd and the 7th ranges are full height bays, oblong at ground floor, canted above, and surmounted by moulded foliage cornices and hipped roofs with tall iron finials: above the ground floor arc sculpted lions holding shields: the 2nd floor windows have 2 transoms and the upper lights are filled with cusped reticulated tracery.

At 2nd floor level 4 octagonal tourelles are corbelled out on moulded squinches and end above eaves level in gabled tops with short octagonal spires. Between centre 2 is a gable with traceried panelling, and pointed arched window with hoodmould, 2 transoms and cusped reticulated tracery. Planked doors in shouldered arch, fanlight with 4 trefoiled lancets in moulded frame, with colonettes and hoodmould. This is set in a porch which breaks forward slightly, has diagonal buttresses, colonettes, bracketed eaves cornice and openwork balustrade with finials on the end piers. Roof has 4 triangular lucarnes, 2 tall ornamental iron finials, and some simple cresint. Octagonal lantern with open pointed arcade, gables to each side, tiled flèche, and tall ornamental iron finial.

Panel above north canted bay inscribed "This memorial stone was laid by the

Master of the Worshipful Company of Clothworkers of the City of London, (Rev

Alfred Child, MA) assisted by members of the Court, on Wednesday October 17th,

1881".

(Extract from English Heritage listed buildings service, record number 406611) http://lbonline.english-heritage.org.uk/BuildingDetailsForm.aspx?id=406611&search=y