Work to Begin on Grade II Library Roof Replacement

ROOF REPLACEMENT works on the Grade II listed Cornerstone library and art gallery are set to begin next month, following the appointment of the project’s contractor.

Based in Collyweston, North Northamptonshire, Messenger have previously worked on numerous listed buildings and are experienced in laying Collyweston slates on sites including the Royal Hospital Chelsea and Leicester Cathedral.

Planning permission for the new roof was granted in December 2024 following three years’ worth of damage caused by leaks and crumbling old slates.

Physical work is due to start on site from early April 2025. A mixture of new slates mined and supplied by Claude N. Smith will be used on the roof along with reclaimed Collyweston slates where possible.

Grade II Library Roof Replacement

“Our team worked incredibly hard to present a competitive and thorough bid, and therefore we are delighted and privileged to have been awarded the contract to re-roof the historic roof on the Cornerstone building in Kettering,” said Paul Gibbons, Managing Director of Messenger.

“The careful stripping and re-slating of Collyweston stone roofs is a delicate process, and we are honoured to contribute to the preservation of such an iconic building in North Northamptonshire. This project will further provide a great opportunity for younger members of our team to develop and learn from our more experienced stone slaters.”

Cllr Helen Howell commented: “It is great news that we have appointed Messenger to complete the roof replacement works. They are a very experienced local company and have worked on many projects similar in nature to our roof replacement project.

“I am really looking forward to seeing work commence on site now the procurement process has been completed.”

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