Barnstaple Bridge Chambers transformation will create a cultural hub for the town

Work to transform Barnstaple’s historic Bridge Chambers into a vibrant cultural hub is set to get underway and due for completion around March next year.

The contract for the refurbishment has been awarded to Pearce Construction and the joint project between The Bridge Trust and North Devon Council, is a major part of the Flourishing Barnstaple programme.

They work will see the historic listed building revitalised into a vibrant cultural hub, featuring a new performance space for arts and cultural events, as well as an accessible terrace.

It is supported by the Arts Council England Cultural Development Fund (CDF). The investment follows North Devon Council’s successful bid for £3million in CDF funding, secured in March 2023.

This funding is being used to develop cultural facilities in Barnstaple, with Bridge Chambers seen as playing a key role in the town’s cultural regeneration.

Alison Mills, museums manager and officer for place, property and regeneration at North Devon Council, said: “The awarding of this contract marks a major step forward in the transformation of Bridge Chambers.

“This project will breathe new life into a historic building and provide a valuable cultural space for the community. We are delighted to see progress moving ahead and look forward to work beginning on site soon.”

Gemma Williams, vice chair of The Bridge Trust, added: "This is a significant moment for both the Bridge Trust and Barnstaple’s heritage.

“Bridge Chambers is a building woven into the story of our town, and we are proud to see it being preserved and reimagined as a space where culture, creativity, and community will thrive.

“We are also delighted that this next stage of the project will be delivered by a local contractor, ensuring the skills and expertise of our community are at the heart of the building’s transformation. It is particularly important that local hands and local knowledge will help bring this important cultural space to life.”

Mark Davis, contract director at Pearce Construction, said: “Pearce Construction is delighted to be working closely with the Bridge Trust on the refurbishment of this historic building, which follows the successful heritage refurbishment works at The Guildhall and currently 36 / 37 Boutport Street.”