Progress to date

Phase 1 was carried out in March 2020 when a public consultation was held on the potential future use of the Gamble Building, with feedback showing an overwhelming desire by local people to see the building back into use as the central library as well as a community arts, cultural and educational space.

Detailed structural surveys (Phase 2) were carried out to enable Phase 3 that invested around £1.2m on comprehensive, high quality external heritage repair works, which included improvements to the roofing and drainage systems, the installation of new windows, and extensive restoration of the brickwork and terracotta features. Despite difficulties brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, external works were successfully completed in July 2022. 

In January 2023, following a competitive tender process, AtkinsRealis were appointed as the lead Multi-Disciplinary Professional Team to progress Phases 4 and 5.

Phase 4 is well underway after Cabinet approved further investment to carry out essential internal enabling works, which will include asbestos removal, removal of redundant equipment and outdated facilities, and the stripping of flooring and false ceilings to prepare the site for main works. Krol Corlett Construction, a Liverpool City Region based business, have been appointed to undertake these works which are scheduled to commence imminently.  

The funding also allows detailed design giving the Council a clear picture of the overall cost and delivery programme for completing the full restoration of this landmark building.

Work on this historic building has been made possible through a variety of funding streams that the project team at St Helens Borough Council have applied for. This includes the St Helens Council Capital Programme,  the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, Town Deal Funding, and £2million from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority for regeneration initiatives.