May 2007

Welconstruct fits out Café at Nechells

Welconstruct has completed the final phase of a multi-million pound refurbishment scheme at Nechells Baths in Birmingham.

Appointed by Bucknall Austin, the fit out and refurbishment contractor has installed a training kitchen, a traditional craft training centre and an internet café to assist those within the community with job searches and interview preparation.

The Birmingham & Black Country Foundation has project managed the four year imaginative refurbishment scheme for this grade II building which was originally closed in 1995 and subsequently restored to its former glory but as a much needed community asset.

Roger Day, regional director of the Woodgate Valley based fit-out and refurbishment specialists Welconstruct said "It is fantastic to see such a historic building brought back to life in such a beneficial way. This state of the art centre will provide a host of opportunities for those living and working in this area and is a credit to the Birmingham Foundation and all those who support this local charity.

Nechells Baths were built in 1910 as part of a general provision of public baths and wash houses across Birmingham and were also the home of the Social Institute and Winder Assembly Rooms.

Following a £5.5 million makeover, with funding from AWM, the Heritage Lottery Fund and ERDF (via GOWM) this elegant building has been successfully restored to its former glory.

Derek Inman, chief executive of the Birmingham & Black Country Foundation added: "Welconstruct has helped to transform a disused civic liability into a multi-use community centre and we are delighted with their approach, energy and commitment to helping us achieve our goal.

"The café and training kitchen will officially open within the next few weeks and we know there is a ready audience already lining up to maximise the opportunities these facilities present."