Architects reveal design for listed landmark

Norton Mayfield Architects’ design for The Civic in Barnsley includes a new theatre, cafe and extended gallery.

The Civic, operated by an independent arts charity, has been part of the town since 1877. After a partial refurbishment, it was given over in trust to the charity, Barnsley Civic Enterprise, and reopened in 2009 with a third of the building unfinished and unused. With the recession in full force at the time, the charity had to adapt and make the venue work in its current form.

Eight years on, The Civic has launched an ambitious £5m fundraising appeal to complete the renovation with the aim of becoming a world-class destination for the arts by 2023. The plans include re-opening The Civic’s historic front doors on Eldon Street.

Alastair Norton, director of Sheffield-based Norton Mayfield, said: “We’ve worked carefully, alongside consultants from Turner and Townsend, to protect the heritage of the existing building and untap its full potential.”