Haymills - Offices Development - Bury St Edmunds, Athenaeum

Date: 06 Feb 2006

Stowmarket based building contractors, Haymills, has this week commenced a sensitive restoration project at the renowned Athenaeum in Bury St Edmunds for St Edmundsbury Borough Council.

The project, expected to last 22 weeks and valued at £600k, will see the demolition and upgrading of existing public amenities, kitchen facilities, entrance foyer and circulation areas. An extension into the inner courtyard supported by a structural steel frame will provide the space for new toilet facilities - and the erection of a single-storey lobby will improve kitchen access. A platform lift will also be installed within the reception area of the Grade 1 listed building to improve access for the disabled. Redecoration of the ornate interior will complete the contract, in-keeping with its aesthetic traditions.

Having recently finished work successfully on the West Wing of Ickworth House and the Company's current contract to refurbish the Theatre Royal at Bury St Edmunds making good progress, the Athenaeum improvements continue to build on Haymills' expertise within the historic buildings market. Due to the sensitivity of the works at the Athenaeum Haymills will be working extremely closely with the construction and design professionals, including Nicholas Jacob Architects, Hyams Quantity Surveying, Services Consultants Johns, Slater & Haward and Structural Engineers The Morton Partnership.

Geoff Tye, Contracts Manager for Haymills, who will be overseeing the development says, "Although the renovation works are to specific areas within the Athenaeum, the principles behind the design and construction remain the same as if renovating the entire building. We will pay particular attention to the detail and quality of finishing and are extremely pleased to be working with a like minded client and design team who genuinely appreciate the celebrated nature of the building."

Dating back to the 18th Century, the Athenaeum has a rich history for being an important social centre - not just for the people of East Anglia, but for everyone in the country. The social elite who have graced the Athenaeum over the years include Charles Dickens and more recently the HRH Queen Elizabeth II during her Golden Jubilee tour. Today the building is open to all and hosts conferences, exhibitions, music events and auctions within its walls and remains an important part of Bury St Edmunds' heritage.

John Griffiths, Leader of St Edmundsbury Borough Council says, "The Athenaeum is a lovely and important Grade 1 listed building but many of the rooms have been underutilised and access has been difficult for people with disabilities. This new refurbishment programme will allow us to use more of the rooms and make the whole building accessible to everyone. With sensitive restoration we'll be able to bring this much-loved building up to modern day standards without compromising its historic fabric and the Athenaeum will enjoy a new lease of life."

Construction activities are programmed to complete in the summer this year.

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