Project Update: Over half-way there, but the race is on!

With Winter nights on the horizon, George Hawkins, Calderstones Development and Heritage Manager, shares the latest from the Mansion House refurbishment project.

Calderstones Park is a beautiful place to visit at any time of the year but the autumnal colours currently on display are something really special. And, as one season comes to an end, we are very aware that Winter is nearly upon us. We are now more than halfway through the refurbishment project, with activity progressing well.

The lift pit is sunk, the skylights are in, the main roof is very nearly back on and the basement is looking more habitable than it has for probably a century. The bulk of the nasty structural surprises have been dealt with and we are proceeding with “first fix” wiring for the electrical systems.

It is all moving very quickly, as we race to get as far as we can before the Winter nights draw in. We've been pleased with the large white tent that has been keeping out the torrential rain, so we can crack on regardless of weather.

Project Vision

In Spring 2019 we will open the doors of our new International Centre for Shared Reading following a £5m refurbishment.

Having signed a 125-year lease for the site, Calderstones is central to The Reader’s mission to bring about a reading revolution so that everyone can experience and enjoy great literature.

Joining the already-established Storybarn and Ice Cream Parlour, The International Centre for Shared Reading will include new reading rooms, heritage activities, space for a variety of workshops, exhibitions and community groups, a shop and café. The refurbished Garden Theatre will be a licensed space where we can all enjoy a programme of exciting community events, including theatre performances. It will also be available for hire for catered events.

The latest photos from the refurbishment:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Can you help?

The refurbishment of Calderstones is a massive project and we need a lot of help! Do you have skills you can share? There are lots of ways to get involved:

• Volunteer your time
• Make a donation
• Become a Reader Friend