This historic building, known as the world’s first iron-frame structure, has been transformed into a contemporary, flexible workspace while maintaining architectural heritage. Gleeds ensured the project’s success through innovative structural reinforcement and precise cost management.
Originally opened in 1797, Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings is often called “the grandparent of skyscrapers". This redevelopment aimed to transform the site into a vibrant mixed-use space, preserving a rich heritage while introducing modern functionalities. It houses several historic listed buildings, including the world’s oldest surviving iron-framed structure. The site covers 9,055m² across seven buildings, with the Flax Mill itself designated as Grade I listed, and the others as Grade II* and Grade II.
Gleeds’ Bristol office provided quantity surveying, health and safety services and cost planning support, leading to approvals for Phase 1 procurement, crucial for stabilising the structure. Gleeds’ scope of works took place over three main phases, plus an ancillary infrastructure scope of works as follows:
- Phase 1: Secured the structure with a prop frame and needling techniques, temporary foundations, new window openings, tie rods installation, and extensive roof restoration, involving repairs to the timber structure and the complete replacement of coverings, including rainwater goods, lightning protection, and photovoltaic panels.
- Phase 2: Continued restoration of the Main Mill, which expanded to include the Engine Houses, Jubilee Tower, and Kiln, including re-roofing, brickwork, window repairs, and structural reinforcements to the frame through insertion of new steel columns to the first-floor structure of the Main Mill.
- Phase 3: Final refurbishments, including fit-out, M&E service installations, external works, sitewide drainage, new car parking, and landscaping. Additional S38 & S278 infrastructure works were introduced to unlock future development potential.