Murrays' Mills

Repairs and reconstruction for a 19th century derelict mill complex of national significance.

Detailed analysis of this site of immense historical significance, constructed between 1798 and 1806, revealed the true nature and extent of structural inadequacy, ranging from an absence of foundations to undersized components and an overall lack of stability.

Using best conservation practice an approach was devised to enable the historic fabric to function to its optimum level. Shortcomings in structural performance were met by the provision of discrete new structural elements.

Brief

  • to lead a £10m restoration project which would repair the world’s earliest surviving urban steam powered cotton spinning factory
  • make the repaired shell suitable for modern use

Results

  • the completed award winning project followed extensive consultations with English Heritage, the Heritage Lottery Fund and Ancoats Buildings Preservation Trust
  • at the end of the process, the buildings are ready for long term future use including commercial office space, residential apartments, a hotel and a textile resource centre

Facts

Location: Ancoats, Manchester
Client: Ancoats Buildings Preservation Trust Ltd
Construction cost: £10m
Completed: 2007
Awards: 5

Integrated services:

architecture, structural engineering

Links to images