Warrington Pyramid Arts Centre Renovation

Project:

Warrington Pyramid & Parr Hall Refurbishment

Client:

Warrington Borough Council

Contract:

Project Value:

Undisclosed

Date of Completion:

Ongoing

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Gallaway Construction Ltd was appointed to deliver the external envelope and full internal fit-out for a new Control Centre for Transport for Wales. This complex and mission-critical facility was designed to serve as a central operations hub, requiring precise execution and rigorous fire and acoustic standards.

Following the steel frame erection by others, Gallaway began works on the external façade, consisting of a Metsec framed wall system. The lower 3 metres were clad with a fibrous-backed Ibstock Staffordshire Blue brick slip system, in line with strict planning and aesthetic requirements. The upper levels featured Kingspan KS1000AWP insulated panels, completed with aluminium flashings and parapet wall detailing to ensure both function and architectural integrity.

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The Challenge

The Solution

Refurbishing the Pyramid & Parr Hall presented a multifaceted challenge: the venue is a Grade II listed building central to Warrington’s cultural life, requiring both sensitive conservation and modern performance upgrades. This was a project that would directly impact the community in many ways.  
Warrington Borough Council set ambitious objectives - enhance acoustic, thermal, and environmental performance while integrating sustainable materials. Overall, the goal was to improve functionality across public, performance, and backstage areas - all without compromising heritage value.
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The age and complexity of the structure introduced technical uncertainties. Opening-up works were essential to validate assumptions about load paths, legacy construction, and hidden features. External refurbishment needed to proceed during adverse autumn and winter elements, and the live nature of the venue required stringent health and safety protocols.

Financial discipline was also essential. We were tasked with maintaining tight control over a defined budget while delivering extensive MEP upgrades, structural interventions, and interior modernisation - all of this to the highest standard.

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We approached the project with a comprehensive, collaborative strategy. Early engagement with heritage consultants ensured all interventions were in line with conservation guidance, and construction methods were adapted to remain sympathetic to the building’s historical fabric. Structural works were carefully sequenced, supported by detailed pre-construction surveys, embedded engineering oversight, and temporary stability measures.
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A key innovation was the use of Kalwall translucent cladding, offering a high-performance solution that delivers natural daylighting and strong thermal insulation while blending with the building’s heritage aesthetic. Internally, we carried out a full MEP overhaul -  acoustic and lighting upgrades, high-spec renovations to performance zones, visitor amenities, and backstage facilities.
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To stay on budget, we hosted value engineering workshops and secured early supply chain commitments to mitigate cost escalation. A rolling risk review system ensured agility in responding to programme and weather-related challenges, while temporary weatherproofing protected critical envelope works.
Health, safety, and wellbeing were paramount. Working within a partially occupied site, Gallaway implemented robust RAMS, enforced high PPE standards, and supported team wellbeing through initiatives like Help Inside the Hard Hat.


As ever, community engagement was embedded throughout the project, from student placements and site visits, to mentorship schemes and donations to local charities - delivering over £180,000 in measurable social value.

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Building for Better

Gallaway Construction Ltd,
The Old School House,
Manchester Rd, Carrington,
Manchester M31 4UG

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0161 776 0608
info@gallaway.co.uk

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