Culture Vannin has submitted plans for a major retrofit of its cultural centre, Fairfield House, in St John’s.
The project aims to enhance the charity’s existing hub opposite Tynwald Hill, a site that once housed the village’s police station and a 19th century lock-up.
Rob Irving, Director of EnviroArchitecture, who are leading the design, said: “Retrofitting heritage buildings like Fairfield House is a powerful way to preserve local character while drastically reducing environmental impact.
“Our design approach balances respect for the building’s historic form with thoughtful contemporary interventions that make the space healthier, more efficient, and better suited to serve the community.”
Cultural Centre
Since its purchase in 2015 using funds from the Kaneen Legacy, the building has served as a cultural centre with offices, exhibitions, and community teaching spaces.
Chris Thomas MHK, Caairliagh of Culture Vannin said: “Our cultural centre was purchased through a generous legacy from Professor Brian Kaneen and this retrofit development is both necessary maintenance and redesign to make the teaching and community facilities more accessible and useful.”
The comprehensive retrofit will address maintenance and improve energy efficiency to the high EnerPHit standard. A small rear extension and new external spaces are also proposed to expand its community and exhibition potential.
The project will be financed from a building reserve fund, secured donations, grants, and future fundraising. Work is planned in phases to allow continued use of the building.