Howarth Litchfield lands plum Alnwick job

Working for Northumberland Estates, the Durham-based architecture practice will deliver conservation architecture, building surveying and principal design services on the former station’s revamp.

Northumberland Estates bought the complex, which ceased operations as a railway station in the 1960s, in 2018.

The landlord is now keen to make sure that the building, home to the famed Barter Books since 1991, along with other businesses, remains fit for purpose with heritage features in good condition.

A recent assessment by the Estate and Howarth Litchfield’s building surveying team identified the need for a number of repairs to the roof coverings, rooflights and original glass windscreens on the south elevation, to make the building structurally sound and watertight.

Howarth Litchfield director and conservation architecture specialist, Neil Turner, sees the building as a fine example of Victorian railway architecture. He said: “The brief for the project is to refurbish the existing Alnwick Railway Station envelope using original materials, with special regard to the roof and east elevation.

“The aim is to restore the inherent historical value of the station, to a position in which it can become a high functioning, attractive site.

“The Alnwick Railway Station has a rich history and, while not operating as a station, still has the potential to add significant value to Alnwick along with the Castle, Gardens and high street. Therefore, we have proposed to restore and renovate the building envelope, as well as removing some latter internal alterations. This work is essential to ensure the continued use of the building into the future.”

Working closely with David Straughan and Emma Gledson of Northumberland Estates, Howarth Litchfield has completed the heritage statements and setting statements to accompany planning and listed building applications, now submitted to the county council.

Gledson, senior building surveyor at Northumberland Estates, added: “Alnwick Railway Station is an integral part of the town’s history. It is a principal feature of Alnwick along with the Barter Bookshop.

“Our team is working closely with all occupiers to schedule repairs that will ensure its significance for years to come and improve the visitor experience.”