Here’s what Wigan’s 1970s civic center will look like in 2025

Developer Capital&Centric has released the latest CGIs outlining its vision for a 32,000 sq m concrete workspace, to be delivered in partnership with the council.

Planning permission for the transformation of the former civic center was granted earlier this year. The revitalization of the space will see the 1970s exterior largely preserved, with the interior stripped back and reconfigured. Indoor demonstration work began in early 2024.

When work is completed next spring, the rebranded Civic will house a mini-cinema, gym, roof terrace and cafe – alongside a range of workspaces designed by Shedkm. There would also be electric vehicle charging points, bicycle storage and gardens.

Planit’s landscape designs will see the project achieve a net biodiversity gain of over 500%, according to the developer.

Key to the design was keeping the concrete facade, according to Capital&Centric joint managing director John Moffat.

Moffat said: “Concrete buildings from the 70s like the Civic really divide opinion and are too often flattened in favor of new construction. But with a mission to achieve net zero emissions, overhauling existing buildings must be the first choice.

“But we’re not relying on carbon savings compared to the alternative, we’re reducing operating emissions by around 40% and packing the building with smart technology to further reduce energy consumption,” he continued.

Enhancing the landscape surrounding the building is an essential part of Capital&Centric’s strategy for the project. Credit: via Font Comms

Moffat also spoke about Capital&Centric’s partnership with Wigan on the scheme, describing the Civic as “a real play in the wider story of Wigan’s regeneration”.

He said: “Wigan Council is showing real ambition when it comes to sustainable regeneration which sets the tone for the town center for years to come. Working together, we are not only determined to create one of the most sustainable workspaces in Wigan, but we also want to defy expectations and create something beautiful, with stunning interior spaces and stacks of lush planting throughout Millgate.

On behalf of the local authority, local director Aidan Thatcher said: “This redevelopment will bring this iconic building back to life and create a modern and sustainable workplace of choice in our city centre. This is an innovative project to restore an old building, give it renewed purpose and ensure it is fit for the future.”

Crookes Walker Consulting is the building services engineer for Civic, while Civic Engineers is the structural engineer.

You can find out more about the future Civic by searching application reference number A/23/96412/FULL on Wigan Council’s planning portal.