 Originally completed in 1903 as the "Municipal Offices", the building was erected at a cost of $100,000 to relieve the demand for office space at the adjacent Town Hall.The name "City Hall" dates back to the grant of city status to George Town in 1957.Both the City Hall and the Town Hall are located at Esplanade Road, overlooking the historic parade ground (the "Padang") within the Esplanade.