Rochdale-based construction manager shortlisted for award

A construction manager, born, bred and living in Rochdale, has been shortlisted for a national building award.

Jason Bamford, who at the time was working for Interserve Construction, headed the project which has transformed the Printworks Campus at Leeds City College, the Grade-II Listed former Alf Cooke Printhalls on Hunslet Road.

This development forms a centrepiece to the college’s newest campus.

Mr Bamford has been shortlisted for the Restoration category award, sponsored by Chase de Vere, at the Construction Manager of the Year Awards 2018. The winners will be announced on 24 October 2018 at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane in London.

Following a fire in 1895 the Crown Point Printing Works were totally rebuilt. At the time they were said to be the healthiest printing works in the world.

The Printworks had a very close royal connection, celebrating the Diamond anniversary of Queen Victoria in 1897 and commissioning playing cards to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth in 1953.

The Printworks ceased trading in 2004 and the building was neglected until the Leeds City College took possession in 2010. While only vacated for six years this was long enough for a state of dis-repair to set in.

The official opening of the renovated Printworks was carried out by the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Jane Dowson, on Wednesday 24 August 2017.

 

 

The development now houses more than 1,300 students who are studying business, IT, computer sciences and digital technologies. The building also includes a restaurant and bar, which is available to the public.

Mr Bamford said: “From the first time entering the Printhall, I knew this would be a fantastic opportunity to bring life back to the former Alf Cooke Printworks.

“While there had already been some remedial works, these hadn’t stopped water or pest ingress and it was clear that there was much to do. Fast forward four months and we had a thriving construction site.

“I am really proud of the results from the work which was carried out and am honoured to be shortlisted for the prestigious Restoration category award.”

Stephen Kavanagh, Chief Executive, Chase de Vere, said: “The Restoration category award recognises the fantastic renovation work undertaken by talented building professionals such as Jason.

“The works he has conducted at the Printworks Campus are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also provide significant benefits for the community and a genuine lasting legacy.”