Builder eyes smashing glass town icon revamp

A building contractor has bolstered its order book with an “iconic” town centre scheme.

Robertson Construction North West is set to oversee the redevelopment of St Helens’ Gamble Building.

Bosses say the project will turn the glass town’s Grade II-listed building “into a vibrant creative and learning hub… by breathing new life into one of the borough’s most recognisable heritage assets”.

They add the work will “bring St Helens Central Library back to the heart of the town centre” alongside an archive, youth hub, office space, community facilities and a café.

Further improvements are set to include an extension to create an entrance that will connect to a plaza and boosts links to a new transport interchange.

Paul Coyle, regional managing director at Robertson Construction North West, which operates from a base in nearby Haydock and is working as main contractor alongside St Helens Borough Council and project management consultant AtkinsRéalis, said the firm will “draw on its experience of restoring and repurposing heritage buildings to deliver the scheme”.

He said: “We will transform the building into a modern, welcoming space for people from near and far, while protecting and celebrating its unique architectural heritage.

“We will also work with our local supply chain and the local community to deliver social and economic benefits both during and after construction.”

The Gamble Building was built in 1896 with funding from St Helens’ first borough mayor Sir David Gamble.

However, it has suffered structural issues, with previous repairs including roofing and drainage upgrades, new windows and brickwork improvements.

Councillor Jack Benyon, St Helens Borough Council’s portfolio holder for regeneration, property and planning, added: “This is an important step forward for the iconic building in the heart of the town centre.

“Robertson has its regional office in Haydock, so the team understands the importance of the Gamble Building in the borough.”

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