Refurbishment of shop front – Stockton on Tees

Client: The council of the borough of Stockton on Tees

Architect: Howarth Litchfield

Value: £100,000

Overview

We were awarded this competitive tender by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council to undertake the refurbishment and restoration of 10–12 Norton Road, a prominent corner property located within Stockton Town Centre Conservation Area.

The project formed part of the Stockton Northern Gateway Townscape Heritage initiative and aimed to restore the building’s historic proportions and architectural character, acting as a catalyst for wider regeneration along Norton Road and King Street.

Works were delivered over a 14-week programme and required careful planning due to the building’s location at the junction of two busy roads, with significant pedestrian and traffic interface.

Scope of works

The project comprised extensive external and internal refurbishment works, including:

External Restoration & Shopfront Replacement.

The original shopfront, roller shutters, fascia signage and associated elements were carefully removed in line with the architectural specification. Minor plumbing repairs were undertaken to address leaks and mechanical and electrical systems were reviewed and upgraded in accordance with the consultant specifications.

Health & Safety Management

The project required full-height scaffolding to three elevations due to the predominantly external nature of the works.

Key risks included:

· Working at height over public pavements

· Demolition works above pedestrian routes

· Traffic management in a busy town centre location

· Asbestos management (in accordance with the Demolition & Refurbishment Survey)

Comprehensive Construction Phase Planning, logistics coordination and segregation measures were implemented to ensure public safety and maintain access along Norton Road and King Street.

All works were completed in accordance with CDM Regulations 2015 and under close liaison with the Client and Principal Designer.

Programme & Delivery

The works were delivered within the agreed programme, aligning with the project key dates set out within the Pre-Construction Information.

Despite the complexities of a live town centre environment, conservation requirements and structural uncertainties, the project was successfully completed on time and to the required specification.

The client commended our team for our proactive communication, quality workmanship and ability to meet challenging deadlines.

Social Value & Community Impact

As part of our commitment to delivering measurable social value, we supported the local community throughout the project.

Associated elements were carefully removed in line with the architectural specification.

We installed a new Accoya hardwood shopfront, including:

· Timber framed glazing with curved panes

· Panelled stall risers

· Lead-dressed fascia

· Handwritten heritage-style signage

New conservation-style internal security grilles

The façade was fully restored in accordance with the conservation-led design. Works included:

· DOFF steam cleaning of the existing render

· Localised render repairs with mesh reinforcement where required

· Removal and reinstatement of render to achieve consistent levels across elevations

· Full redecoration using Sandtex Ultra Smooth masonry paint (Cotton Belt)

Structural concerns relating to render disparity and potential wall-tie issues were reviewed in consultation with Billinghurst George & Partners and repairs instigated.

Rainwater goods were replaced with pressed aluminium (with cast iron to the base of downpipes), and chimney repointing and leadwork repairs were completed to ensure long-term weather tightness.

Windows & Building Envelope

Thirteen new hardwood sliding sash and case windows were installed in resized openings to reflect original proportions.

Additional works included:

· Removal and infilling of selected side elevation openings

· Repair and redecoration of retained timber windows

· Installation of recon stone cills

· Making good internal plaster and external render to all affected areas

All works were carried out with sensitivity to the conservation area setting and in close coordination with the design team.

Internal Refurbishment

Internally, undertook ground floor retail refurbishment works, including:

· Removal and replacement of damaged ceilings and floor finishes

· Installation of new lighting

· Preparation and decoration

· Making good following shopfront installation

Upper floors and stairwells were refurbished, with structural elements reinforced where necessary. Fire safety upgrades were incorporated, including signage, emergency lighting and compliance works in line with current regulations.

In recognition of the building’s location within Stockton town centre and the social challenges faced locally, we made a financial donation to a Stockton-based homeless charity dedicated to helping individuals move off the streets and access accommodation and support services.

By aligning our project delivery with meaningful community support, we ensured the refurbishment contributed not only to the built environment but also to the social wellbeing of the area.

Outcome

The transformation of 10–12 Norton Road has reinstated the building’s historic character and enhanced its visual presence within the conservation area.

The scheme now serves as a key visual gateway at the junction of Norton Road and King Street and demonstrates our expertise in:

· Conservation-led refurbishment

· Shopfront restoration

· Structural and façade repair

· Working safely within constrained town centre environments

This project reflects our commitment to quality craftsmanship, collaborative working and delivering long-term value for both our clients and the communities in which we operate.

End result