Block A, Killingworth

Overview:

Block A on Stephenson Industrial Estate, which is a site of 19 buildings developed in three parts during 1966-75, is located in Killingworth North Tyneside and looks onto Station Road.

It is a Grade II* listed steel and reinforced concrete skeletal frame building, and was listed as a British Gas research station in 1997, designed by Ryder and Yates in 1965 and built between 1966-97. The listing covers Block A, as well as it’s neighbouring block B.

The building was designed on a 3’4″ planning grid, with the intention of it being both flexible and extendable, which has been done over the years. It contains a suspended ceiling system, which was the first of its kind. It’s sculptural entrance portal and rooftop water tanks and flues can be seen clearly as it is approached by road.

The building has most recently been used as offices and storage/workshop facilities.

Externally, we were responsible for the full renovation, including re-cladding to match existing, re-decoration to the concrete structure and re-roofing the vast flat roof.

Internally, we were responsible for the full renovation of the building, which included a redesign and reconfiguration of the spaces to allow for flexible modern office accommodation.

Throughout the project we were required to negotiate various difficulties with the presence of asbestos and its removal, while protecting the heritage of this important listed building, and the health and safety of everyone involved. We were also responsible for acquiring Listed Building approval where required.