Cheddleton Old School is a historic stone building dating back to the 1800s and formerly operated as a school. Now functioning as a community centre, the building accommodates a range of uses including meeting rooms, a craft centre, tea rooms, a beauty salon and council meeting facilities. The client sought to restore and refurbish key areas of the building to enhance income streams, improve energy efficiency and create a more welcoming environment for users.

 JCA Consulting were initially appointed to design and manage a general refurbishment of the Old Hall within the building. A primary focus of this phase was improving the thermal performance of the building envelope, including insulating solid stone walls and the underside of the vaulted ceiling, while respecting the character of the heritage structure.

Following the successful completion of the initial works, JCA were re-appointed to design, specify and project manage a similar refurbishment within the Beauty Room. This phase included further thermal upgrades and the installation of a new bathroom facility to support the commercial operation of the salon.

All works were tendered to suitable contractors, with JCA acting as Project Manager and Contract Administrator under a JCT contract to ensure quality, compliance and cost control throughout.

Work Involved:

• Acting as Project Manager for the restoration and refurbishment of a historic stone building.
• Developing designs and detailed specifications for refurbishment works to the Old Hall and Beauty Room.
• Improving thermal performance through insulation of solid walls and the underside of vaulted ceilings.
• Advising on energy efficiency measures to reduce carbon emissions, fuel costs and improve occupant comfort.
• Tendering the works, assessing contractor submissions and advising on appointment.
• Administering the JCT contract and managing the project through construction.
• Coordinating the installation of new bathroom facilities within the Beauty Room.
• Inspecting works on site, managing quality and completing snagging and final completion procedures.

The refurbishment works at Cheddleton Old School have successfully enhanced the functionality, comfort and sustainability of this important community asset. The improved thermal performance has reduced heat loss, increased user comfort and contributed to lower energy costs, supporting the long-term viability of the building.

The upgraded spaces now provide attractive, flexible accommodation for a range of uses including community hire, commercial activities and council meetings. The project demonstrates JCA Consulting’s expertise in managing sensitive refurbishment projects within historic buildings, balancing heritage considerations with modern performance standards and sustainable design objectives.