Camborne Town Library

Project

Camborne Library

Location

Camborne, Cornwall

Client

Camborne Town Council

Contract

£600,000

Duration

40 weeks

Project Description

The Passmore Edwards Building is a prominent Grade II listed library and civic building in Camborne town centre. Classic Builders was appointed via competitive tender to deliver a conservation-led refurbishment focused on external roof and fabric repairs and internal reinstatement so the building could be returned to long-term public use. The scope of works included extensive re-roofing with natural slate, replacement of leadwork and flashings, rebuilding chimneys, repointing historic masonry and a programme of internal repairs, dry-lining, replastering and redecoration.

Working on a listed asset at a busy junction demanded a pragmatic, sensitive approach. Early condition surveys and collaboration with the design team and conservation officers allowed us to distinguish salvageable fabric from elements requiring full replacement. Programme and access were planned around the building’s public role: the library and council services remained operational through temporary arrangements while we completed the works.

“We’re delighted with the standard of work Classic Builders has delivered for this vital community asset.” – Head of Strategic Development Camborne Town Council

Our delivery combined traditional craft with modern quality controls. Natural Delabole slate was used to match the historic roof character; Code-5 lead detailing, supported flashings and detailed vertical soakers were specified to current standards; chimneys were carefully dismantled and rebuilt; and lime-compatible mortars were used for repointing to preserve the granite and Bath-stone dressings. Internally major works were undertaken to replace rotten timbers and secure salvageable beams using state of the art resin injection stabilising techniques. A staged sample-panel programme secured client and conservation sign-off before full replacement began.

The result is a long-lasting roof, secure chimneys and restored stonework, with interiors stabilised, repaired and redecorated to support modern library and council functions. By combining conservation sensitivity with robust site controls, we protected the building’s architectural character while upgrading its performance and longevity for future generations.

Classic Builders delivered the programme on a constrained site with minimal disruption, clear stakeholder communication and workmanship aligned to conservation best practices. The project demonstrates our capability to restore and future-proof listed buildings so they can continue to serve their communities for decades to come.