9 March 2022 – Arcadis has been appointed by Halton Council to deliver a £3.5 million extension of Brindley Theatre in Runcorn.
The extension will provide a new library and café facilities, creating a cultural asset for the community and an anchor in the town centre, boosting both its use, town centre footfall and dwell time.
Runcorn town centre has suffered like many high streets from declining footfall and underinvestment. A Town Investment Plan, part of the Government’s Town Deal Programme, helped the area secure £23.6m to invest in seven transformational projects which included the Brindley Theatre.
The project will also allow the library to move into more modern, higher quality space that will encourage greater usage and community participation.
Arcadis is leading a multi-disciplinary team, providing project and cost management services and working with local firms Ellis Williams Architects, Curtins (structural and civil engineering) and Tace (M&E).
Nick Kealey, Arcadis UK Town Centre lead said:
“We’re proud to be working on this significant project for the community, which will support the transformation of Runcorn town centre by improving and sustaining a valuable community and cultural asset. This will help attract more people into the town centre, creating jobs and spend within the local economy.
“This project is another example of our market leadership in the design and delivery of town centre projects which to date has seen over £1 billion invested into towns across the UK in the last three years.”
Cllr Paul Nolan, portfolio holder for Employment, Learning and Skills, and Community said:
“Since it opened its doors in 2004, The Brindley has become a much-loved venue and landmark for Runcorn, drawing high-profile national and international performers who attract visitors from across the region and beyond.
“These designs, which complement the iconic design of the current building, will see The Brindley welcoming even more people and being the catalyst to creating a flourishing cultural hub that will be a boost to the town centre economy.”
