Buttress has been appointed for multiple phases of work, most recently having completed a feasibility study on the building. Our current work includes a project viability report to assist with funding applications.
Our proposal for Mercer Hall brings the building back to its roots as a community venue. We plan to turn the former leisure centre into a large, flexible event space alongside an expanded food and beverage offering. Retail and gallery spaces and artist studios are also envisioned to open Mercer Hall back up to the street.
The design will provide callbacks to its original use, with the swimming pool featured in the interior fitout. While the pool has been covered to provide a flexible events space, glazed openings and floor finishes hint at the original function.
Mercer Hall was originally built as a community venue and dance hall. It later became a leisure centre in the 1960s. Its use has declined in recent years, following the closure of its swimming pool.
In 2014, the Conservation Area was extended to include the Hall, underscoring its historic and local importance.
The first phase of the project includes increasing accessibility on the site. Creating access for all is a key aspect of the project – a community centre needs to This includes the introduction of a ramp, a lift to the first-floor level and improvements to the internal circulation to increase ease of movement around the building.
The current stair core has the option of being removed to accommodate a new lift to further increase accessibility.
Emily Green, Buttress project architect, has said:
“Our approach to Mercer Hall prioritises restoring its role as a welcoming cultural centre for the community. By carefully balancing contemporary needs with the building’s historic character, we aim to create a space that celebrates Great Harwood’s heritage and provides a community resource to the town.”
Funding is due to be submitted in early 2025.
Emily Green
Emily is a skilled architect whose experience ranges from small residential schemes to large-scale industrial masterplans.
Stephen Anderson
Stephen leads the practice's heritage team, specialising in projects that involve listed buildings and heritage assets and responding to their impact on place and local communities.