St Helens Borough Council has published a series of computer-generated images offering a first look at proposals to extend, refurbish and repurpose the landmark Gamble Building in St Helens town centre.

Created by the project's architects, Donald Insall Associates, the visuals highlight key elements of the scheme: a fully accessible entrance foyer; a purpose-built, modern Archive benefiting from improved environmental controls; an engaging and inclusive Youth Hub; and a new café and communal spaces within a state-of-the-art St Helens Library intended to serve as the borough's 'living room'.

The plans also include a Business Connect Service and flexible office accommodation on the upper floors.

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Released following a public engagement event at The World of Glass on 30 January, the images underscore a heritage-led approach, showing how contemporary, future-proofed facilities will complement and enhance the Gamble Building’s historic architectural features.

Work to advance the project is under way. Around £1.2m of external repairs have already been completed, and Liverpool City Region-based Krol Corlett Construction is on site delivering enabling works including asbestos removal, stripping out redundant equipment and outdated facilities, and removing flooring and false ceilings to prepare the building for the main phase.

Councillor Richard McCauley, Cabinet Member for Regeneration at St Helens Borough Council, said: "It is fantastic to share these images offering an insight to our vision for the Gamble Building with residents and stakeholders. As a Council, we made a commitment to bring the Gamble Building back to its former glory and these images demonstrate the bold ambition we have for the next chapter of this historic landmark. The designs allow people to understand our vision for the Gamble and how it truly will act as the living room of our Borough where there is something for everyone to access, enjoy and feel proud of now and for future generations."