A grade II listed former ironworks in Northampton is set to become home to creative businesses with studios, workshops and managed workspaces.
The £14 million Vulcan Works development, in the heart of the town’s Cultural Quarter, is a combination of renovation and new build, providing 68 lettable units aimed at start-ups and growing businesses within the creative industry.
The project was undertaken by West Northamptonshire Council and construction partner Stepnell. Work started on site in March 2019.
Stepnell’s Midlands regional director Adrian Barnes said: “We are delighted to have completed Vulcan Works – a tremendous achievement for everybody involved. We are extremely proud of everyone who has had a part to play in bringing this historic building back to life, providing an exciting space for new businesses to grow and thrive while still retaining some of the original features and characters of the former factory.”
The project faced a number of challenges in order to preserve its 146-year heritage, he added. Vulcan Works’ town centre location required the use of a tower crane for material movement and the project consisted of listed elements as well as new build.“The interface between the elements had to be carefully considered and sequenced to ensure we got it right,” said Mr Barnes. “We are delighted with the end result.”
The new Vulcan Works is expected to support up to 100 businesses in its first ten years of operation, creating around 300 jobs. Cllr Lizzy Bowen, West Northamptonshire Council’s cabinet member for economic development, town centre regeneration and growth, said: “The project has delivered a collection of buildings that I know small creative businesses will want to call home.
“We were insistent on an extremely high standard of finish and that is precisely what we have got. The transformation of this collection of buildings, some of which were in a terrible state of repair, is absolutely startling.”
The project, designed by architects Purcell UK, involved the refurbishment of the old iron stone work factories along Guildhall Road, the refurbishment of the former museum store and the creation of a new three-storey building, as well as constructing a brand new block on Angel Street to create the new office, studio and managed workshops.
The South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership, responsible for growth delivery in the region, has contributed £6.3million towards the development through its Local Growth Fund.
A further £3 million is being provided by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government from the European Social Fund.
