BOLTON'S Grade II-listed Bolton Albert Halls was declared one of the best projects in the UK at the construction industry’s annual ‘Oscars’.

The Willmott Dixon project, for Bolton Council, transformed the building into a revitalised, modern public venue at the heart of the town centre, acting as a catalyst for future regeneration and encouraging more visitors to the town.

The quality of Willmott Dixon’s work saw it win Project of the Year in the £0m-£10m value category at the Construction News awards.

Judges hailed it as a “flagship project” for Bolton that demonstrated ‘a highly effective client-contractor relationship’.

They also praised the way it achieved real value for money, with a strong approach to health and safety, that leaves a lasting legacy for the client, restoring an older building to its former glory.

Judges commented further, “The careful phased approach was impressive, particularly around asbestos, and the whole project showed the value of forging strong relationships within the project team.”

REVEALED: Exclusive look inside the £6.5 million revamp of Albert Halls

The scope of Willmott Dixon’s work transforming Albert Halls included re-roofing, re-pointing of external stonework, asbestos removal, soft strip and demolition, lift installations, M&E installation, original flooring restoration, and other general upgrades and decoration. The project however, was much more than just the restoration of the building; what has been created is a local cultural landmark for Bolton which has already won the Living Heritage Award from Welsh Slate for buildings that are important architecturally, historically or locally to a community.

It continues Willmott Dixon’s role across Bolton, which also includes building Horwich Leisure Centre and starting plans to restore the Octagon Theatre.

Anthony Dillon, managing director of Willmott Dixon in the North, said, “As a locally based company, we are proud to help Bolton stand out with this award. We have a very strong track record working with Grade II listed buildings and it is always a pleasure to bring these iconic and culturally significant buildings back to life. Hopefully the town hall will now continue to play a central role in the Bolton community for generations to come.”

Joanne Ivison, head of service asset management, Bolton Council, “Bolton Council is immensely proud to receive such a prestigious award. It was a pleasure to work alongside Willmott Dixon to deliver this complex, challenging project. The project has created a legacy for Bolton of which we are incredibly grateful.’