The Tyldesley Library Heritage Refurbishment Project involved the comprehensive restoration and modernisation of this Grade II listed building in the heart of Tyldesley Town Centre. The works included the installation of a new roof in materials sympathetic to the original building, alongside brick repointing, repairs, and a DOFF steam clean to revitalise the facades. Internally, specialist floor slab strengthening was undertaken, and extensive structural alterations were carried out to create two DDA-compliant toilets on the ground and first floors. Accessibility was significantly improved with the addition of a rear ramp, motorised corridor doors, and an internal passenger lift. The library also underwent a full electrical rewire and mechanical heating installation, insulated re-plastering to enhance energy efficiency, and specialist damp treatments. Further improvements included complete repairs to the original feature coverings and the terrazzo staircase, new floor coverings, and painting and decorating throughout, ensuring a refreshed and functional space that honours its historic character while meeting modern standards.
Tyldesley Library presented several challenges that required careful planning and adaptability. The roof, at the end of its natural life, required complete replacement. This task was made even more complex by the arrival of two named storms in quick succession. To overcome this, we implemented a phased approach, stripping and re-covering sections of the roof with felt and batten on the same day to ensure the interior of the building remained dry throughout the works. Communication was another challenge, as we needed to provide regular updates to the community while maintaining the council’s confidentiality. To balance transparency and privacy, we shared weekly progress updates through photographs displayed locally within the library, allowing the community to stay informed without compromising sensitive information. These solutions ensured the project’s success despite the difficult conditions.
Environmental sustainability was a key focus of the Tyldesley Library Heritage Refurbishment Project. In compliance with planning conditions, Wigan Council’s ecologist conducted thorough bird and bat surveys, ensuring the project adhered to ecological regulation. To address contamination from dead animals and bird guano, we appointed specialists to hygienically clean affected areas. Measures were implemented to enhance energy efficiency, including cladding the external solid walls with insulated plasterboard, installing loft insulation, and selecting low-energy electrical and mechanical components wherever possible. Salvaged materials from the library were reused where suitable, reducing waste. We worked closely with residents and businesses, minimising our footprint by renting an office instead of using busy car parks and designing scaffold corners to keep neighbouring shops fully accessible. Progress updates were shared locally in the town hall, ensuring the public remained informed throughout the environmentally conscious project.
Off the back of the art competition, Councillor Chris Ready, cabinet member for communities at Wigan Council, said: “With work on Tyldesley Library moving forward nicely, it was brilliant to see local school children showcasing their amazing artistic skills to share their favourite things about the town. We’re thrilled to be working with Sterling Services on this project and look forward to reopening the building on its completion.”
