Another step closer to restore the Old Library to former glory
The revamp of Oldham’s Old Library, led by Tilbury Douglas, a leading UK building, infrastructure, engineering and fit-out business, continues to take shape – all the scaffolding has now been removed to reveal the beautiful stonework and restoration to the roof.
The careful restoration has been ongoing since January 2022 and included replacing the roof – using the original tiles wherever possible – cleaning the stone to bring it back to its former glory.
To mark the significant milestone, Tilbury Douglas and Oldham Council came together on 1 August – the 140th anniversary of when the building was officially opened to the public in 1883. As part of the event, attendees explored the inside to see the progress being made that will transform this important historic building and hear more about the details of the extensive restoration works.
To highlight her commitment, Council Leader, Cllr Arooj Shah and Harry Catherall, signed a steel section of the stairs which will be permanently installed in the building for many years to come.
Preserving key historical features has been at the centre of the restoration, including relief sculptures – which are features in the stonework. These add meaning to the building and were meant to add context to the building as a library and art gallery.
Located on the east and west walls are a collection of carved stone heads – figures from literature, art, music, science, and engineering. The Lady Wrigley statue also sits atop of the historic building, proudly holding a wreath in one hand and a book in the other.
Once complete, the library will have space for vital council services, an extended community gallery, Oldham Theatre Workshop, a contemporary venue for public meetings, a fully equipped council chamber, and dedicated support staff facilities.
Phase one of the building is set to be complete in September 2023 and phase two – which is all the internal fittings – will be starting soon to really bring the building to life again. The Old Library is set out over a number of floors, and as part of its redevelopment, the whole building will be made accessible to all users.
The social value that the project has already achieved for Oldham is estimated to be more than £3,600,000.
“Being able to transform such an historic site into a cultural hub, which will add so much to the community, has been a real honour for the Tilbury Douglas team. Everyone including our supply chain partners have gone above and beyond to maximise every opportunity to give back to the local community.”
Phil Shaw, Divisional Director for the North West at Tilbury Douglas
Oldham Library update
July 2023