Plans to replace the historic Grade II listed roof of the library and art gallery at Cornerstone in Kettering have taken a significant step forward.

North Northamptonshire Council has secured both planning permission and listed building consent for the project, paving the way for essential restoration work to proceed.

While awaiting approval, the council has conducted a comprehensive tender process for the work through the Government's Contract Finder system. With permissions now granted, the council is moving to the next stage, seeking confirmation from Natural England that bat protection measures meet environmental standards.

The roof will be replaced with Collyweston slate, a material chosen after consultations with conservation experts and following advice from Historic England. This ensures the restoration remains true to the building's historic character while meeting modern standards of durability.

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A contractor is expected to be appointed in early 2025, with physical work set to begin shortly thereafter. The project represents a significant investment in preserving a cherished piece of Kettering's heritage, ensuring the library and art gallery remain fit for future generations.

Within the initial project plans were proposals to tent the building to help keep the building watertight before works could start. A revised approach is now being taken, with temporary repairs having taken place where there were leaks and the roof is being monitored with further repairs being undertaken where necessary. This approach will result in a significant cost saving in the overall project budget. The tent will be necessary once roofing works begin and tiles start to be removed.

Due to the works and scaffolding that will be required internally to ensure the safety of all concerned, the library services will continue to be temporarily relocated into the upper floor of the modern extension of Cornerstone for the foreseeable future. The library team are offering a full range of services and group activities, whilst the Cornerstone team are continuing to run a range of outreach activities across Kettering with details and information available on the Cornerstone website and social media channels.