Halifax is a step closer to being a world-class cultural destination following the appointment of a construction company to transform the historic Piece Hall and create a new, state-of-the-art Central Library and Archive in the town centre.
Calderdale Council awarded the building contract to GRAHAM Construction after a tendering process which will ensure both the best quality and value for money. With an impressive track record in building, civil engineering and heritage restoration, GRAHAM is well placed to carry out the work, which has started on site today (27 October 2014).The Piece Hall and the new Central Library and Archive will open in spring 2016.
GRAHAM operates throughout the UK and Ireland and has worked on many high-profile projects in the public and private sectors. The company has a record of working with buildings of historic importance, including some of national significance. Projects include:
- Refurbishing the Victorian era Lews Castle to create a new museum and archive for the Outer Hebrides, and restoring the historic interior of the castle.
- Renovating the impressive Barnsley Town Hall to house a museum, learning centre and café, bringing tens of thousands of visitors to the town centre each year.
- Upgrading and faithfully restoring the Ulster Hall, one of the oldest buildings owned by Belfast City Council, transforming it into a modern, multi-purpose facility.
Calderdale Council’s Leader, Cllr Stephen Baines, said:
“This is a significant milestone for the Piece Hall transformation project and the new Central Library and Archive. I’m delighted that the Council will be working with GRAHAM Construction. With such a strong track record, I’m confident that the company will create outstanding facilities that everyone can be proud of, taking great care to respect the site’s magnificent heritage.”
Gary Hughes, Regional Director at GRAHAM Construction, said:
“The Piece Hall is a historic and much-loved building which is part of the fabric of Halifax. The refurbishment will therefore be extremely sensitive to its heritage.
“GRAHAM Construction is tremendously proud to be playing such a major part in this keenly anticipated facility. We share the vision of our project partners to see the Piece Hall caringly restored so it may continue to play a practical, sustainable and interactive role for current and future generations.
“The new build £9.25million library and archive, which GRAHAM is constructing as part of the Piece Hall redevelopment, will also be a fantastic facility for the town within a thriving cultural quarter.
“GRAHAM will be engaging with the community to maximise education, employment and social opportunities, as well as opening up the building to visits from interested parties throughout the renovation, sharing the development with the people of Halifax.”
The Piece Hall transformation project is being funded by Calderdale Council and a £7million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. The Grade I Listed building will be refurbished and conserved, creating a 21st century heritage visitor attraction, with a state-of-the-art interpretation and learning centre, a new east extension and a redesigned courtyard. Find out more at www.thepiecehall.co.uk(external link)
The new Central Library and Archive will be wholly funded by the Council. It will be a striking building which provides state-of-the-art facilities for the community, supporting the Piece Hall transformation and helping to create an improved pedestrian route from Halifax train station to the town centre. Find out more at New Central Library and Archive.