Old Town Hall, Kensington

The Old Town Hall in Kensington, London, was a significant municipal building completed in 1880, designed in the Italianate style by Robert Walker. It served as the headquarters for the Royal Borough of Kensington after gaining royal status in 1901. The building hosted notable events, including speeches by Sir Oswald Mosley and Margaret Thatcher. However, it was controversially demolished in 1982, leading to public outcry and accusations of 'official vandalism' against the local council. Today, the site serves as a reminder of the area's rich civic history and the challenges of preserving historical architecture.