Architect changes at Calderstones reading centre

Austin-Smith:Lord has replaced Cass as architect on the Calderstones Mansion redevelopment in south Liverpool by social charity The Reader Organisation.

The Reader plans to create an International Centre for Reading with a variety of facilities, expanding its services aimed at families, retired and elderly people, people with mental health problems, people with physical health problems, vulnerable adults and vulnerable young people. Groups read outloud as a way of connecting with literature and gaining social skills and support.

The project won £2m from the Heritage Lottery Fund. Other sources include the charity’s own cash reserves, private charitable donations and there is likely to be a contribution from Liverpool City Council.

Cass took the scheme through planning and the lottery bid. The design team was then tendered again following public procurement rules and ASL was the “outstanding candidate”, according to Craig Bentley of The Reader.

ASL’s cultural project portfolio includes Central Library in Liverpool.

Project manager Todd & Ledson, mechanical and electrical engineer Charles Andrews, and structural engineer Curtins advise The Reader.