Creative Building Projects has completed a major programme of works at Elsecar Heritage Centre. The scheme formed part of the multi-million-pound Cultural Development Fund and focused on three Grade II listed buildings: the former Earl Fitzwilliam’s private railway station (Building 13) and The Ironworks buildings (20 and 21).

The project preserved the historic character of the site while creating modern spaces for nurseries, creative workspaces, and events.

Building 13 – Earl Fitzwilliam’s Railway Station

Building 13, once the Earl’s private station, then a children’s nursery, and now a flexible space ready for new occupants, required careful management. The ground floor at the time remained in use throughout as a nursery, so we planned works around quiet times. As a result, the nursery staff reported no disruption.

We delivered a full M&E upgrade with new lighting, power, radiators, and air handling. The team replaced slate and ridge tiles, renewed the flat roof, and added sun tunnels to bring in more natural light. Externally, we repaired stonework, repointed walls, and refurbished upper-level windows. Internally, we fitted new fire doors, carried out structural works, and completed a full decorative refurbishment, including new flooring.

Building 20 – The Ironworks

We transformed Building 20 from storage into a secondary events space. High-level structural works allowed the installation of radiant panels and acoustic insulation. The layout was reconfigured to improve circulation, while Ibix cleaning restored the stone and brickwork.

We installed new fire-rated doors and large louvers to support mechanical services. Accessibility also improved with a new ramp, stairs, and bespoke handrails. Finally, we applied a deep-fill screed across floors, carried out decoration and joinery, refurbished existing coach doors and windows, and repaired the roof with new slate and ridge tiles.

Building 21 – The Ironworks

Building 21 received targeted upgrades to support the new events space. We extended and reconfigured internal walls to create fire lobbies and circulation areas. Our team installed new fire doors, refurbished timber doors, and built a new plant room. In addition, we upgraded M&E systems, renewed flooring, and refreshed decoration. Roof repairs with slate and ridge replacements completed the work.

Building 20B

In Building 20B, we removed asbestos from the roof before carrying out gable works. We then installed a new metal roof, gutters, and downpipes. Further works included blocking redundant doorways, upgrading electrical systems, and completing structural repairs.

Outcome

This project formed part of a multi-million pound investment and the completed works have created new creative workspaces, upgraded events venues, and enhanced cultural facilities. At the same time, we safeguarded the historic fabric of these landmark buildings.

The project was delivered smoothly despite complex logistics and live operations. The nursery in Building 13 at the time stayed open throughout, demonstrating careful planning and collaboration. Elsecar Heritage Centre now benefits from modern, flexible spaces that celebrate its heritage and secure its future as a hub of culture, creativity, and community.

Thank you to everyone involved in delivering this project to the high standard of quality expected by the Creative Building Projects team.