Warden starts work on £2m Camden Buildings transformation in Runcorn

Warden has started building work to convert part of the Camden Buildings, in High Street, into a new learning and workspace on behalf of Halton Borough Council and community learning organisation Power in Partnership.

The project involves refurbishing No.59 High Street by replacing the building’s existing timber structure with a new steel structure, enabling the creation of a three-storey ‘winter garden’ style space that will act as a lobby, break-out area, and small events space.

A second part of the project involves the creation of a new-build, two-storey extension on the site of the adjacent former post office at No.57. This space will be linked to No.59 and provide an internet café, games area, learning kitchen and access to a rear garden, with a first-floor space for group activities.

The £2m project is part of Runcorn’s wider £23.6m Town Deal, which is delivering eight town centre regeneration projects overall.

Ian Williams, managing director of Warden Construction, said: “This is a project that’s delivering so many benefits for Runcorn – supporting skills development for local people, regenerating the town centre, and also enabling heritage buildings to be preserved for future generations.

“The architects and the design team have done a fantastic job coming up with a solution that enables the building and its historic façade to be retained, while creating inspiring new spaces for people to learn, grow, and work towards securing further training and employment opportunities.”

The project at 57-59 High Street is expected to be complete in Autumn 2025. The project team includes K2 as architects, Arcadis as client’s agent and AKS Ward as structural engineers.

Jack Manners, project architect at K2 Architects, said: “We’re thrilled to contribute to the transformation of the Camden Buildings. This development will bring together Runcorn’s digital and skills initiatives and create a collaborative space for community-driven businesses to thrive.”

Future work at the Camden Buildings will also see 63-65 High Street restored as a space for digital skills training and performing arts. A Georgian-era building at 71 High Street has already been restored by Warden Construction as a studio and exhibition space for artists.