Tent installed for year-long library roof repairs

Scaffolding and a temporary tent have been installed for work to replace the roof on a Grade II listed library building.

The roof of Kettering Library and Art Gallery in Northamptonshire was damaged during heavy rain in 2023.

North Northamptonshire Council earmarked almost £7m for the repairs and local firm Messenger will be using Collyweston slate from the county for the repairs.

Greg Wilcox, North Northamptonshire Council's executive member for communities said: "The project continues to move forward at pace."

With the tent in place the old slates will be removed alongside the installation of scaffolding on the art gallery side of the building.

Kettering Library opened in 1904 and expanded in 1913 when an art gallery complex was built on the side of the main building.

A modern extension has been added and the whole complex, including the Manor House Museum, is now known as Cornerstone.

The roof of the original building is made of Collyweston slate, a unique limestone which is much heavier than traditional slate and is quarried near the Northamptonshire village from which it takes its name.

The gallery and museum have remained closed since the damage occurred, and the library has been relocated to the new wing.

It is hoped the work will be finished by August 2026.

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