The Astley Cheetham Art Gallery and Library in Stalybridge is set to undergo a £1.8m interior renovation, with plans tabled to refresh the Grade-II listed building. The venue has been temporarily closed to the public to improve access to the gallery.
The proposals include a refurbishment of the library and art gallery areas, new wall, floor and ceiling finishes, a new accessible toilet, and a platform lift from the basement to the first floor.
Wider regeneration of Stalybridge
The funding forms part of a wider improvement scheme to regenerate Stalybridge’s cultural quarter and historical assets. The neighbouring Civic Hall has already been renovated, with the work completed last year.
Previous planning permission was granted to demolish the old rear entrance and create a new accessible entry. The Trinity Street building has also undergone structural repairs, improvements to lighting and the art gallery windows, and the creation of a central art display.
Restoring the library's character
The latest makeover plans would update the interior, as planning documents note that the décor has become old and tired.
“The library contains a number of important original features which make a positive contribution to the character and significance of the listed building,” the documents state. “Over time, however, the quality of the space has been weakened by clutter, tired finishes and later decorative changes which do not fully reflect the architectural value of the space. The proposed works seek to address practical issues within the library while restoring a clearer sense of dignity, order and quality.”
“The intention is not to over-modernise the room, but to carefully reveal and enhance the qualities already present,” they add.
