Key multimillion-pound contracts bolster Sutcliffe’s GM operations

Civil and structural engineering firm, Sutcliffe, has been appointed on the redevelopment of two multimillion-pound historic buildings in Rochdale – Touchstones and Heywood Civic Centre.

Touchstones Rochdale, which is currently the borough’s main arts and heritage venue, has appointed Sutcliffe through the Constellia framework to undertake civil and structural designs and a full site investigation, to create internal alterations and to ensure that the building meets current fire safety standards.

The 120-year-old, Grade II-listed building, owned by Rochdale Borough Council, is located within the Rochdale Town Centre Conservation Area and is on the edge of the Heritage Action Zone. The total cost of the redevelopment will reach around £5m.

Heywood Civic Centre will benefit from a multimillion-pound transformation into a first class arts and performance venue, designed by architects, K2.

Sutcliffe’s remit on the Heywood refurbishment project incorporates structural designs for internal alterations and site investigations, foundation and steel design for the new entrance extension.

Sutcliffe has extensive town centre heritage venue experience, including Bolton Library and Crewe Market Hall.

While based in Liverpool, Sutcliffe has operated a Salford office for a number of years, where it is planning to increase investment as part of a Greater Manchester-focused growth strategy.

CEO, Sean Keyes, said: “Our Manchester activity has increased extensively over recent months and these latest contract awards are no exception.

“Given our experience in heritage projects, we feel more than ready to get started and breathe some life back into these buildings so they can continue to be enjoyed for years to come.”

He added: ““We’re eager to continue this period of framework wins as we head into Q2, further affirming our place as one of the region’s leading civil and structural engineers.”