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Kettering Library and Art Gallery Restoration

Kettering Library and Art Gallery Restoration

In April 2025, our valued customer Apex Scaffolding led a major project at Kettering Library and Art Gallery, supporting Northamptonshire Council in preserving the historic buildings and their distinctive Collyweston stone slate roofs - key to the site’s heritage.

Products and Project Overview

Products and Project Overview

Altrad Generation Northampton played a key role by supplying Apex Scaffolding, not only with essential Scaffolding Materials, but also with our innovative Uni-Roof System. The products included 15.3 miles of Scaffold Tubes, 15,150 feet of Scaffold Boards, and 14,300 Scaffold Fittings to securely assemble the structure. Additionally, 31 tonnes of Kentledge Weights were supplied to ensure the Scaffolding remained stable and secure throughout the project.

The project required meticulous planning, including a temporary road closure to enable the use of a crane for lifting enormous roof trusses into place. Some of these trusses spanned an impressive 41 meters, making their installation a complex and highly visible operation. The dramatic sight of the crane lifting the massive structures attracted crowds of onlookers, highlighting the scale and significance of the project.

This essential project involves essential repairs to Grade II listed buildings in the East Midlands, beginning with the installation of scaffolding to support the wider programme of restoration. Roof replacement at Kettering Library is scheduled to start in mid-August, followed by the Alfred East Art Gallery at the end of September.

Challenges and Solutions

Challenges and Solutions

The roof design was a collaborative effort, requiring numerous meetings between Brett Crawford, an Altrad Generation sales representative, and Jonathan Wotton, Director of Apex Scaffolding, with great support from DESSA and their engineer, Ben Campbell. Together, they developed a design that enabled the safe and efficient erection of roof trusses spanning 36 to 41 meters, including several asymmetrical trusses that posed unique challenges for the lifting plan. This teamwork ensured the design addressed both the structural requirements and logistical complexities of the project.

Despite the huge volume of products and complex logistical challenges, Altrad Generation delivered a smooth and efficient supply process. This seamless coordination was vital in establishing a reliable foundation for the Scaffolding, enabling safe and efficient access for the intricate restoration work ahead and meeting the high standards set by Northamptonshire Council.

The Buildings

The Buildings

The Kettering Library and Alfred East Art Gallery are iconic Grade II listed landmarks that reflect the rich heritage of the East Midlands. Opened in 1913, the Alfred East Art Gallery celebrates the legacy of Sir Alfred East and continues to serve as a vibrant cultural hub. Similarly, Kettering Library has long stood as a cornerstone for learning and community engagement. Preserving these historic structures ensures their architectural beauty and cultural significance endure for future generations.

Images

Kettering library restoration
Kettering library and art gallery restoration
Kettering Library Roof restoration
Kettering library and art gallery roof restoration
Roof restoration at Kettering library
Roof restoration at Kettering library and art gallery
Restoration at Kettering library

Northampton

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