Historic art gallery and library in Stalybridge set for makeover

The Astley Cheetham Art Gallery and Library in Stalybridge is set to get a makeover.

The Grade-II listed building has been closed off to the public temporarily to improve access to the gallery. Now plans have been tabled to renovate the inside of the building. 

The proposal includes refurbishment of the library and art gallery areas, a new wall, floor and ceiling finishes. 

There are also plans for a new accessible toilet and to install a new platform lift from the basement to the first floor.

Some £1.8m is being splashed on the Jacobean Revival style building as part of the wider improvement scheme to regenerate Stalybridge’s cultural quarter and historical assets.The Civic Hall, just next door, has already received a renovation, which was finished last year.

The council already gained planning permission to demolish the old rear entrance at the Astley Cheetham Art Gallery and create a new accessible entry. Trinity Street building also received structural repairs; improvements to lighting and the art gallery windows; and the creation of a central art display.

These latest makeover plans would update the interior, as the décor has become old and tired, according to planning documents.
Planning papers read: “The library contains a number of important original features which make a positive contribution to the character and significance of the listed building.

“Over time, however, the quality of the space has been weakened by clutter, tired finishes and later decorative changes which do not fully reflect the architectural value of the space. The proposed works seek to address practical issues within the library while restoring a clearer sense of dignity, order and quality. 

“The intention is not to overmodernise the room, but to carefully reveal and enhance the qualities already present.”