North Lincolnshire Council has appointed Burnley-based UK Restoration Services to undertake a dramatic makeover of St John’s Church – one of Scunthorpe’s most historic landmarks.
Using Government cash from the Towns Fund, UK Restoration Services will carry out extensive repairs to the Grade II listed building, paving the way for the development of Discover, a science and technology centre containing hands-on experiences that complement the venue’s arts and heritage exhibitions.
With the contractor now appointed, specialist repairs will take place at St. John’s Church in the coming weeks – including the rebuilding of roofs as well as the descaling, cleaning and repointing of stonework – with many of the church’s original features restored or renewed.
UK Restoration Services Director Phil Braithwaite said: “The project has an excellent team with a wealth of knowledge to deliver this project to the highest standard. There will also be opportunities for local employment.”
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council and Towns Fund Board Member, said: “I am delighted that the Board has been able to appoint UK Restoration Services to kickstart this transformation. It is great news that the makeover will create jobs too.
“High streets up and down the country need to adapt, and Scunthorpe is no exception. Retail will always form an important part of any town centre and this will not change, but we also need to drive footfall by bringing in exciting new experiences people cannot find anywhere else.
“That is where Discover comes in – its hands-on activities will spark the curiosity of our young people, attracting more families into the heart of the town.”
The transformation of St. John’s Church comes on top of the construction of Scunthorpe’s Enterprise and Innovation Hub, which continues at pace.
Last month Towns Fund Board members visited the landmark build to see the last brick being laid to the 46-unit accommodation block.
When completed, the ambitious build will provide more than 27,000 sq feet of premium office and collaborative space up to 200 workers, and a licensed café bar, as well as the accommodation.
Cllr John Davison, cabinet member for safer, stronger communities, Scunthorpe, Ashby and Bottesford, said: “St. John’s Church has been at the heart of the community for more than 130 years – many residents celebrated their marriage here – so it is only right we protect this historic asset for many more years.
“We are not just preserving the building though; we want to go further and bring it a new lease of life. We hope the new Discover centre will inspire many more families to enjoy this amazing place.”
The makeover is part of more than £80m of Government funding which has backed the council’s plans for creating a new future in North Lincolnshire. This includes cash for roads, new motorway junctions, enabling people to develop their skills and supporting communities.
