Kettering Library and Alfred East Gallery Reroofing
Client: North Northamptonshire Council
Project: Reroofing of Kettering Library
Location: Kettering
Status: Ongoing
Oliver Architecture was appointed to provide Conservation Architectural Design and Contract Administration Services for the reroofing of the Grade II-listed Kettering Library and the adjoining Alfred East Art Gallery. The project forms a key part of North Northamptonshire Council’s investment in preserving and enhancing the town’s cultural assets.
Constructed in 1904 to the designs of Goddard, Paget & Catlow of Leicester, the two buildings stand prominently in the heart of Kettering. Their significance lies not only in their architectural character but also in their role as focal points for the town’s cultural and community life.
Constructed in 1904 to the designs of Goddard, Paget & Catlow of Leicester, the two buildings stand prominently in the heart of Kettering. Their significance lies not only in their architectural character but also in their role as focal points for the town’s cultural and community life.
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Project Scope
The works involved comprehensive reroofing across both buildings, guided by a conservation-led approach.
Sensitivity and Community Considerations
Oliver Architecture worked closely with the Council to ensure that heritage elements were treated with care. To maintain public access, two dedicated viewing areas were created, allowing continued engagement with the gallery’s plaques throughout the works.
To avoid disruption to library users, services were temporarily relocated to the upper floor of the modern Cornerstone extension. This ensured uninterrupted access to books, services, and group activities for the community.
The reroofing will deliver a major heritage gain through the reinstatement of Collyweston slate using correct traditional techniques and will secure the future of two of Kettering’s most important civic buildings, ensuring their sustainability and continued cultural value.
The works involved comprehensive reroofing across both buildings, guided by a conservation-led approach.
- Library Roof: Existing Collyweston slates have been carefully removed and retained for reuse, complemented by new slates to secure the building for the future. The reroofing is also incorporating new insulation and felt, and replacement of a small asphalt roof. Full scaffolding and protective tenting were installed to safeguard the building during works.
- Art Gallery Roof: The bitumen felt covering was stripped away and replaced with new insulation and felt, improving long-term performance. Special protective measures were taken for the adjacent Grade II-listed War Memorial, including temporary shielding during scaffold installation.
Sensitivity and Community Considerations
Oliver Architecture worked closely with the Council to ensure that heritage elements were treated with care. To maintain public access, two dedicated viewing areas were created, allowing continued engagement with the gallery’s plaques throughout the works.
To avoid disruption to library users, services were temporarily relocated to the upper floor of the modern Cornerstone extension. This ensured uninterrupted access to books, services, and group activities for the community.
The reroofing will deliver a major heritage gain through the reinstatement of Collyweston slate using correct traditional techniques and will secure the future of two of Kettering’s most important civic buildings, ensuring their sustainability and continued cultural value.