OLDHAM’S restored former library has secured two prestigious national awards in recognition of its transformation into a modern civic and cultural hub.
The Grade II-listed building on Greaves Street, now known as the J.R. Clynes Building, won both the Cultural and Leisure Project Award and the Retrofit and Reuse Project Award at the 2026 British Construction and Infrastructure Awards.
Delivered for Oldham Council by construction company Tilbury Douglas, the project has brought the historic landmark back into active public use after it stood empty from 2017.
Dating back to 1883, the 34,800 sq ft building served as a cornerstone of community life for more than 130 years before being replaced by the Oldham Library and Lifelong Learning Centre in 2006.
Following an extensive restoration, it reopened in August 2025, providing new facilities for the council, Oldham Theatre Workshop and Oldham’s art gallery.
Inside, visitors will find a Council Chamber and Mayor’s Parlour, meeting rooms for civic and community use, a second-floor art gallery and a studio for Oldham Theatre Workshop. A community garden has also been created to host public events throughout the year.
Recognition in the Cultural and Leisure Project category reflects the successful regeneration of the heritage building, preserving its historic character while creating an inclusive space for future generations.
Judges were particularly impressed that 75 per cent of suppliers involved in the project were based locally. Opportunities for young people to develop skills and pursue careers in heritage trades also helped the project stand out.
A second accolade, the Retrofit and Reuse Project Award, recognised the ambition involved in restoring the much-loved community asset rather than rebuilding it.
Praise from the judging panel focused on the conservation-led approach, which retained and enhanced important heritage features while introducing modern civic and cultural facilities to support wider town centre regeneration.
Working alongside Oldham Council, Ellis Williams Architects, Curtins and specialist contractors, Tilbury Douglas carried out extensive conservation work, including restoring historic finishes and original parquet flooring.
Accessibility was improved through the installation of a new glass lift, while modern facilities were carefully integrated into the existing structure.
James Kington, director of growth at Oldham Council, said: “Winning these two awards is a fantastic achievement and a proud moment for everyone involved in bringing this historic building back to life.
“The regeneration of this landmark has not only preserved an important part of our heritage, it has also created a modern civic and cultural space that will benefit residents, community groups and visitors for generations to come.
“Working closely with our partners Tilbury Douglas, we have transformed this building into a vibrant hub at the heart of the borough.”
He added that the awards recognised the vision, collaboration and expertise behind the restoration, underlining the council’s commitment to investing in historic buildings and the town centre.
Kabir Salihi, regional director at Tilbury Douglas, said the company was incredibly proud of the recognition.
Kabir said the project demonstrated what could be achieved through collaboration and a shared commitment to protecting heritage while creating lasting value for the community.
Held at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London on Wednesday, October 14, the 39th British Construction and Infrastructure Awards brought together more than 1,000 industry professionals.
Organised jointly by New Civil Engineer and the Institution of Civil Engineers, the awards recognise outstanding projects and their contributions to communities across the UK.
Further recognition came earlier this year when the J.R. Clynes Building was named Regeneration Project of the Year at the Construction News Awards 2026.