The Octagon Theatre.
Structures Group successfully delivered a complex structural refurbishment at The Octagon Theatre, adapting to significant project variations and exceeding initial scope.
Email: info@structures.co.uk
Project
Client
Services
Masonry, Concreting, Structural Alterations, Localised Steelwork
Background
Enhancing Audience Experience and Community Engagement
At just over 50 years old, The Octagon Theatre was the first theatre to be built in the Northwest since World War One. It began as the brainchild of a university lecturer and group of students from Bolton University. Brick by brick, funds were raised by the local government and the people of Bolton.
The theatre was officially opened on 27th November 1967 by HRH Princess Margaret. Within the scope of works, owners commissioned the theatre’s largest transformation in its 50-year history, making the building accessible to wheelchair users and improving audience experience and comfort by adding new seating in the auditorium, a new twofloor café and bar, and a new entrance and foyer.
Other spaces were created to allow work with young people and people in the community to take place, such as classrooms and studios. Backstage areas, rehearsal rooms and fitting rooms were also refurbished as part of the development.
Work Undertaken
Delivering Structural Adaptability at The Octagon Theatre Renovation
The contract was awarded to Structures Group by Willmott Dixon Construction Ltd (WDC) following referral from our award-winning work on Bolton Museum. The agreed scope of work was to form a series of new structural openings and infill old ones as part
of the new proposed design arrangement for the refurb of the Octagon Theatre.
Structures also completed concrete repairs, steel lintel and bracing installations, the laying of new concrete and excavating old, localised sections of concrete floor slabs. Working closely with the WDC site team to meet their programme deadlines, this was
a large-scale refurbishment project. Originally intended to be a £50k work package, it transpired into a £160k contract as a result of the variations we were instructed to complete during our time on site.
This project demonstrates our versatility as a sub-contractor: we complied with all instructions WDC issued to us, delivering all our services in accordance with their project programme whilst remaining cost effective throughout. This was achieved as a
result of good collaboration between the WDC site team and Structures Group SSSTS/SMSTS qualified site management.
Lancashire Restoration for Community Enrichment
As a Manchester-based company, Structures Group takes immense pride in extending our expertise beyond the city limits to contribute to the vibrant communities of Lancashire. The restoration of The Octagon Theatre in Bolton was more than just a construction project; it was an opportunity to enhance the lives of local residents by creating an accessible and modern cultural hub. Adding to the richness of the local community is a core aspect of our business philosophy.
Project Portfolio
Diverse Projects, Expert Solutions
Structures Group has consistently delivered exceptional engineering and construction solutions across the North West. Explore our diverse portfolio below, showcasing our expertise in various projects that have shaped and strengthened communities throughout the region.
The Elephants
Bolton
Bolton Town Hall
Bolton
Waterloo War Memorial
Wigan
Hotel Indigo
Manchester
Crusader Mill
Manchester
Moor Hall
Aughton
The Octogon
Bolton
Media City
Salford
Flyde Coast
Flyde
Kampus
Manchester
Cenotaphs
Leigh
Bee In The City
Manchester
Start A Project
With Structures Group.
One of the largest restoration contractors in the North West we specialise in the restoration, renovation and conservation of private, commercial, historic and listed buildings.
Get in touch by completing our online form, or by contacting us directly at 01942 684 772 or info@structures.co.uk