HRH Duke of Gloucester re-opens Alfred East Gallery and Kettering Library after multi-million pound renovation

Before unveiling a plaque and officially re-opening the site, His Royal Highness toured the site, meeting with the various teams and stakeholders who have been involved in the project.

He met with staff from the library, art gallery and BIPC, as well as the chairman of the Friends of the Library and chairman of the Friends of the Art Gallery and Museum to hear about the site, renovations and day-to-day work.

Representatives from the roof replacement project, including contractor Messenger and the project’s architects, spoke about the work that has been completed to give the building another estimated 100 to 120 years of life.

The re-opening follows an extensive programme of work including the replacement of both the library and art gallery roofs and works to install a new two-storey extension to the rear of the building, that is now fully open for the first time in six years.

During the visit, Cllr Martin Griffiths, leader of North Northants Council, said: “These past few years have not been easy, between Covid-19 and building renovations, but our staff have worked tirelessly to keep these services running for our community.

"The library's work has been nothing short of incredible, continuing to deliver the universal library offer and open access to books, learning and culture for everyone.

“The Alfred East Gallery, too, has an opportunity to inspire through art, and even while closed, it delivered an award-winning outreach programme that took creativity out into the community when it was needed most.

“Looking ahead, with exciting plans for the museum, these connected spaces have a real opportunity to become a catalyst- bringing culture, heritage and learning together, and creating even greater impact for the people of Kettering for years to come.”