Project Scope
Krol Corlett is progressing Phase One of the refurbishment of Fabric Church, Manchester, transforming one of the city’s most distinctive historic buildings into a vibrant destination for worship, community and collaboration.
Working alongside the Diocese of Manchester and the Church Revitalisation Trust, this ambitious restoration will breathe new life into the former Ardwick Green Barracks, creating a modern community hub while carefully preserving its rich heritage.
- Replacement of the roof coverings and rooflight to the main Drill Hall.
- Installation of a new rooflight to the former Barracks building.
- Repairs and preparation of the existing roof structures.
- Upgrades to flashings, rainwater goods and associated internal finishes.
- Specialist removal of lead-based paint from the Drill Hall masonry walls.
Challenges
Delivering construction works within a live Grade II listed building presents a unique set of challenges, requiring meticulous planning and close collaboration with all stakeholders.
The project team is working in full compliance with Listed Building Consent requirements while ensuring Fabric Church remains open and operational throughout the programme.
Specialist lead paint removal is being undertaken by licensed contractors within carefully controlled working environments, supported by rigorous health and safety procedures.
The live nature of the building also requires the careful management of shared emergency escape routes, maintaining safe segregation between construction activities and building users while ensuring uninterrupted access at all times.
Image Credit: Fabric Church/ Hexa
Completion
Upon completion, Fabric Church will provide a welcoming space for worship alongside flexible co-working facilities, offices, children’s Sunday School areas and a community café. The revitalised building will support people who live, work and study in Manchester city centre, with a particular focus on young adults, students and those who may be vulnerable.
Originally completed in 1886 as the Ardwick Green Barracks, the Grade II listed building has played an important role in Manchester’s history, serving as the home of battalions of the Manchester Regiment and the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, before later being used as a detention centre during the Second World War.
This refurbishment represents the next chapter in the building’s long history, securing its future for generations to come.
