The construction contract is understood to be worth around £190m and will see the grade one-listed building fully restored along with extensive, improved public realm.

Lendlease will be responsible for managing the project and procuring around 80 subcontracts ranging from  £10,000 – £40m.

Works will include restoring the Great Hall and its Ford Madox Brown murals, as well as external repairs to the roof, stonework and drains.

The council said ‘significant work’ is needed to address the electrics, heating, ventilation and lifts in the building.

The client project team includes Mace who were appointed late last year as project manager and architect Purcell, who have worked up designs to refurbish the Grade I-listed landmark building.

Lendlease has pledged to support the project’s delivery of a range of comprehensive social value commitments including 150 apprenticeships and 45 new jobs targeted at Manchester residents.

Councillor Nigel Murphy, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “This appointment is an important milestone in the Our Town Hall project to improve access to this icon of Manchester and safeguard it for current and future generations.

“There aren’t many construction firms with the expertise and resources required to deliver a heritage project of this scale and complexity on behalf of the city and after a rigorous selection process we are confident that Lendlease offered the best overall value.

“There will also be millions of pounds worth of opportunities for local businesses and people to get involved in the project through this contract, including apprenticeships and other training opportunities.”

Neil Martin, Managing Director, Construction at Lendlease, Europe, said: “Manchester Town Hall is one of the city’s most recognisable and well-loved landmarks. Lendlease has a long track record of working with heritage buildings and enhancing them for contemporary use and we will bring all of this experience to bear at Manchester Town Hall.”