Premier Lift Group elevates Oldham’s historic library restoration with bespoke glass duplex lift

Premier Lift Group is proud to announce the successful design and installation of a bespoke duplex passenger lift within the newly restored, Grade II-listed library and art gallery in Oldham, now renamed The J.R. Clynes Building.

Completed in collaboration with lift manufacturer Doppler, the scenic glass installation serves as a striking architectural centrepiece for the landmark’s 2025 reopening.

The Victorian building, dating back to 1883, originally operated as a free public library before being replaced by the Oldham Library & Lifelong Learning Centre in 2006 and later closing its doors in 2017 due to significant building deterioration.

As part of the major restoration to transform the site into a vibrant civic hub, architects, Ellis Williams, approached Premier Lift Group back in 2019 to deliver a lift solution capable of supporting high visitor volumes and a design worthy of honouring the building’s architectural heritage.

The resulting duplex lift features a contemporary industrial design with a black metal structure, brass buttons and handrail, and full-height glass panels, offering visitors panoramic views of the interior and galleries as they move between floors.

A key fob enabled pedestal was also added to the exterior entrance of the lift to control access to the upper-floor galleries.

Ryan Plunkett, Design Director at Premier Lift Group, said: “Our goal was to deliver a solution that feels like a natural extension of the building’s history. From the initial drawings to the final phased installation, we focused on creating a lift that works flawlessly during peak visitor periods, while adding a contemporary edge to the space. It was about enhancing accessibility without competing with the building’s charm. We are incredibly proud of this project.”

The installation ensures that The J.R. Clynes Building is now fully accessible to all, supporting Oldham’s community as it enters a new chapter as a modern cultural space.