The building, which was constructed in 1810 to house the court of quarter sessions, is steeped in history.
It was extended between 1849 and 1850, and in the 1880s and later served as the Crown Court and as a County Court, eventually closing in 1992.
It has since stood derelict until it was sold to private developer, Rushbond.
Planned work includes creating an events space within the former main number one courtroom.
Elsewhere in the building, a restaurant, cafe and studio spaces will be provided, along with a new entrance and landscaped public terrace.
A neon art installation, by Turner Prize-winner Martin Creed, will also be permanently put in place on the outside of the building.
The project is expected to be completed by summer next year.
Take a look inside the old building:
19. Workss
Planned work includes creating an events space within the former main number 1 courtroom. Photo: s
22. Restoration
Coun Jack Hemingway said: "“Its restoration is a catalyst for growth in the civic quarter and brings fresh opportunities for living, working and socialising in the city centre." Photo: s
23. Wood Street plan
The project forms part of a wider council-backed strategy to revitalise Wood Street and the surrounding area. Photo: s
24. Convert
In 2021, the council agreed to convert one of the most historic parts of the city into a new neighbourhood with homes and public facilities. Photo: s