£2m regeneration transforms Grade II listed former library

Construction firm Seddon has completed its £2m regeneration of Stafford’s 224-year-old Shire Hall.

Seddon has transformed the former library space into an enterprise centre, offering a range of 97- 323 sq ft office spaces, a reception room and meeting areas.

The business centre aims to support local, small and start-up businesses with flexible tenancies and an onsite support team.

Stafford Chamber of Commerce is among the first of the occupants to move into the market square centre.

Seddon says it has blended modern office aesthetics with the historical features of the building’s architecture, having been built for use as a courthouse in 1798.

During the 28-week project, a bespoke lath and plaster ornate ceiling, an original part of the building, was repaired and redecorated by a specialist.

As Shire Hall is Grade II listed, Seddon and its delivery partner, Entrust, worked to standards and expectations set by the Heritage Authority to uphold the integrity of the building, whilst optimising it for its new life as a business enterprise centre.

Peter Jackson, managing director of Seddon said: “The Shire Hall project has been an excellent project for us, modernising the interior of one of Stafford’s landmark buildings whilst still keeping its history and integrity in place.

“Regeneration projects like this are important to both Seddon and the communities we serve. The project is a testament to our relationship with Staffordshire County Council which continues to go from strength to strength.”

Staffordshire Council deputy leader, Philip White added: “Having Shire Hall open again as a thriving business centre is exciting for Stafford and will play an important part in the wider regeneration of the town.

“It is an iconic landmark in the heart of Stafford town centre and we’re pleased to have brought it back into productive use for the community.”

Seddon’s current projects in the Midlands include the refurbishment and remodelling of Sandwell secondary school in West Bromwich, converting its use from a technical college into a general teaching facility.

It is also refurbishing category 2 bioscience labs at the University of Derby, with Seddon now firmly established in the region.