Speller Metcalfe’s Book Library and Education Plan in the West Midlands

Speller Metcalf is set to deliver major upgrades to two public buildings in Wolverhampton.

The West Midlands-based contractor has been appointed as the preferred bidder for the central library and adult education facility works.

The deal forms part of a £61m investment in Wolverhampton’s Learning Quarter, with the council aiming to create a “vibrant” learning hub to improve the prospects of residents.

Speller Metcalfe was awarded the pre-construction contract and was asked to perform detailed design and realization work ahead of the project’s official start this fall.

Plans for the Central Library include the restoration of the Grade II* listed building facade at Snow Hill, a new roof and back entrance lobby, internal alterations and landscaping.

Meanwhile, a two-storey glass links building will connect the library’s 1930s extension with Wolverhampton’s Alan Garner Center for Adult Education in Old Hall Street, which itself is also internally Renovations are scheduled to take place.

The improved facilities will be located adjacent to new teaching facilities at Wolverhampton City University. Under construction by McLaughlin and Harvey.

Works on the Central Library and Adult Education Wolverhampton are expected to take a year, during which time the building will continue to operate.

Councilor Chris Barden said the plans were “an important part of City Learning Quarter’s vision to bring new state-of-the-art facilities to the city center and improve life opportunities for people of all ages.” He said that it represents.

He added: “Rather than draining talent to other parts of the region, we will improve the city’s learning, apprenticeship and employment offer and provide a vibrant education hub where we can retain our best talent. I am thinking of doing so.

“The new facility provides a significant refurbishment to the city center, restoring one of our much-loved historic buildings, as well as providing excellent connectivity to rail, bus, tram and cycle routes. We also provide

Speller-Metcalfe is already working on the first stage of the City Learning Quarter masterplan, which will see an £8 million high-tech development at City of Wolverhampton University’s Wellington Road campus in Bilston. Construction of an automotive center is underway.

Speller Metcalf director Matthew Bailey said he was “delighted” that the contractor was working on the latest phase.

“Restoring heritage and listed buildings is what our team thrives on and I am delighted to have been appointed to this scheme,” he said.