Walker Art Gallery & Midland Railway Building – Phase 1
Heritage
Project type
2022
Project completion date
£4.2M
Projected value
12
Project duration (months)
Embarking on the monumental task of refurbishing and reviving the historic Walker Art Gallery & Midland Railway Building, both esteemed Grade II* listed landmarks, was no small feat. This ambitious project unfolded over 52 weeks with a dedicated budget of £4.2 million.
The primary focus centered on meticulous refurbishment and essential roof renewal, encompassing an expansive area spanning approximately 650m².
Entrusted with this significant endeavour, The Board of Trustees of National Museums and Galleries on Merseyside of World Museum turned to Krol Corlett, cementing a productive partnership based on a prior successful collaboration during the construction of the Liverpool World Museums’ new Egyptian Gallery. This pre-existing relationship laid a solid foundation for a harmonious and efficient working dynamic, with a deep understanding of each party’s modus operandi and expectations.
Central to our triumph was a commitment to collaboration. Regular meetings and seamless communication ensured minimal on-site disruptions, and issues were addressed proactively to mitigate potential delays and concerns. Krol Corlett worked in close coordination with the design team and the client to maximise the project’s value, while also actively involving the community in various facets of the endeavour.
The remarkable achievements of this project serve as a resounding testament to the unwavering resilience, dedication, and innovative prowess of the entire team involved.
The restoration of these historical buildings posed unique challenges:
- Working within live public spaces open to visitors.
- Managing complex logistics in the bustling city centre with limited parking.
- Navigating stringent planning controls and adhering to listed building consent regulations.
- Weather-dependent roof renewal work during the initial months of the project.
- Ensuring seamless operations without disturbing the daily routines of the staff and visitors.
The majority of our work was to the building’s roof and restoration to the gallery rooms. The roof works were weather permitting and as the project started during March it proved extremely difficult and some unforeseen delays were encountered.
As well as having to constantly review and adapt the programme due to weather, Krol Corlett also had to incorporate specialist skills to meet the demands of Grade II listed building requirements – this demonstrated the team’s dedication to authenticity and preservation. With planning and works being subject to much more stringent planning controls there were additional time and programme implications to overcome.
Our team were also able to successfully manage a live working environment, all the while prioritising health and safety, which marked a significant milestone.
Rigorous quality control remained at the forefront, aligning with both client and consultant objectives. Notably, the project adeptly navigated the challenges presented by the pandemic, making necessary adaptations without compromising safety or overall progress.
Thanks to meticulous planning and adaptability completion was ahead of schedule.
Our commitment to minimising our environmental footprint was exemplified through the establishment of a comprehensive Environmental Management Plan. We embraced the ethos of sustainability by engaging local labour, suppliers, and subcontractors, thereby reducing our carbon footprint. Our dedication to eco-friendly practices was evident through initiatives such as recycling, harnessing solar power, and utilising green materials.
Furthermore, this project not only celebrated the cultural heritage of the region but also served as a beacon for sustainable construction practices. The restoration of the Walker Art Gallery & Midland Railway Building stands as a shining testament to our innovative spirit, collaborative efforts, and unwavering commitment to preserving and revitalising history.
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