Issue 45 Feb 25 web - Flipbook - Page 120
Messenger Awarded
Contract for Ashbourne’s
New Link Community Hub
Messenger has been appointed as the Main Contractor for the construction of Ashbourne’s new
community hub, The Link Centre, following a competitive tender process led by Ashbourne Methodist
Church.
Specialists in the conservation and repair of historic
buildings, we are excited to bring our expertise to this
transformative project.
This significant redevelopment is part of the broader
£15.9m Ashbourne Reborn programme, which aims to
revitalize the town centre. Of this, £13.4m has been secured through UK Government funding, with additional
funds raised by project partners, including Ashbourne
Methodist Church.
The UK Government-funded project, led by Ashbourne
Methodist Church, will breathe new life into the existing
church buildings located at the corner of Church Street
and Station Road. Once complete, The Link Centre will
provide vital new services for residents, businesses, and
visitors alike.
Progress So Far
Early preparatory works at the site in 2023 allowed main
construction works to commence immediately following
contract award. Our team has already made excellent
progress, uncovering and restoring previously boxed-in
decorative columns and ornamentation that will feature
in the new event space.
The redevelopment will integrate three existing buildings
into a fully accessible community hub with a new central
foyer. Facilities will include a large events space for performances and community arts, a variety of refurbished
meeting rooms, and ensuite visitor accommodation at
Gateway Lodge, which will attract additional footfall and
support the local economy. The project will also establish
a mobility hub, offering sustainable travel options and
seamless access to the Peak District.
The construction work, including the worship and
performance spaces, is scheduled for completion by
Christmas 2025, with the visitor accommodation
expected to open in spring 2026.
• Main Contracting
• Fine Conservation
• Lead and Zinc Metalwork
• Passive Fire Protection
Creating and caring
for our built heritage
www.messengerbcr.co.uk
i
i
Conservation & Heritage Journal
118
