Robertson appointed to transform historic St Helens landmark

Robertson has been awarded the design and build contract to restore and repurpose the prominent Victoria Square property, bringing St Helens Central Library back to the heart of the town centre alongside a state-of-the-art archive, dedicated youth hub, flexible office accommodation, community facilities and a new café.

The ambitious scheme will breathe new life into one of the borough's most recognisable heritage assets, creating a welcoming destination for learning, creativity, collaboration and community activity.

A contemporary extension to the rear of the property will provide an accessible new entrance and strengthen links to the new St Helens Transport Interchange that will soon complete. The extension will connect directly to the new Gamble Plaza and the wider Phase 1 town centre regeneration programme, helping create a seamless gateway into the town centre.

Working alongside St Helens Borough Council and project partners, including project management consultant AtkinsRéalis, the Robertson team will identify opportunities to maximise value while preserving the vision for the development before works fully get underway.

Councillor Jack Benyon, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Property and Planning, St Helens Borough Council said: “This is an important step forward for the iconic building in the heart of St Helens town centre, which we know residents are keen to see restored to its former glory as the home of St Helens Central Library and so much more.

“We welcome the appointment of Robertson as the contractor for this beloved building who were successful after a very competitive tender process. Robertson has its regional office based in Haydock so the team there understand the importance of The Gamble Building in the borough. We believe they will not just deliver a revitalised landmark for us but also play a part in supporting the wider community through their social value projects and support for local businesses.”

Paul Coyle, Regional Managing Director, Robertson Construction North West, said: “Drawing on our experience of restoring and repurposing heritage buildings, we look forward to partnering closely with St Helens Borough Council and delivering its vision for the Gamble Building.

“We will transform the building into a modern, welcoming space for people from near and far, while protecting and celebrating its unique architectural heritage. As a regional contractor, we will also work with our local supply chain and the local community to deliver real social and economic benefits that will be felt both during and long after construction.”

The Grade II listed Gamble Building was closed to the public due to structural issues and has already benefited from around £1.2m of essential external repair works. These included improvements to roofing and drainage systems, the installation of new windows and extensive restoration of the building's distinctive heritage brickwork and terracotta features.

The building was built in 1896 with funding from Sir David Gamble, St Helens' first Borough Mayor, and has been a prominent part of the town’s civic and educational heritage for more than 130 years.

The Gamble Building artist impression by Donald Insall Associates