Blyth Cultural Hub

To overcome the challenge of meeting the acoustic requirements of both the cinema screens and the town hall events space, we developed floor and wall build-ups capable of achieving the required dB ratings. Re-entrant metal deck slabs were specified to deliver the massing needed while keeping slab depths efficient.

Given the site’s Flood Zone 2 location, we delivered a Flood Risk Assessment and drainage strategy, including diversion of an existing adopted combined sewer that ran directly through the centre. SuDS features such as raingardens integrate with public realm landscaping, alongside careful reuse of existing paving to reduce embodied carbon.

The Level 01 structure required a varied floor plate to accommodate the cinema seating as well as circulation and other spaces across the rest of the level. Transfer beams were introduced to accommodate the changes in level, as open span areas below meaning some columns can’t continue down the foundation level. To maintain structural efficiency throughout, we standardised bays and column setting-out wherever possible, coordinating closely with the architect. This reduced beam sizes and overall steel tonnage, contributing to a leaner, more efficient frame.

Sustainability has been embedded in both building and landscape design. SuDS features, in the form of raingardens, provide attenuation to meet greenfield runoff rates while enhancing biodiversity and softening the previously hard landscape. These were carefully coordinated with the diverted combined sewer and surrounding public realm features. In addition, paving slabs from the market’s £3m refurbishment in 2009 were lifted and then reused in the new design. This effort reduced waste, cut embodied carbon, and provided continuity with the market square’s history.

Stakeholder collaboration has been integral to shaping the scheme. Jam Jar Cinema, who will operate the cinema spaces, were closely engaged throughout Stage 4 design. Their representative participated in workshops along with Northumberland County Council and Kier Construction, ensuring that operational needs, including the foyer layout, were fully considered. The local market traders were another vital stakeholder. Since the market previously occupied the centre of the square, stalls had to be relocated during construction. Working with the Council, we ensured continuity by relocating them to Market Street, where new public realm has been designed to accommodate a permanent market presence.

Together, these elements extend the role of the Blyth Cultural Centre beyond its building envelope. The project not only delivers state-of-the-art cultural facilities, but also establishes a more sustainable, resilient, and community-focused town centre that reflects the needs of both residents and visitors while contributing to the wider regeneration of Blyth.