When it comes to preserving history, every detail matters. For AJS Scaffolding NW Ltd, the chance to support the restoration of Cannington Shaw’s No. 7 Bottle Shop in St Helens has been a journey of precision, expertise, and pride.
The project, spearheaded by Clan Contracting Limited in partnership with St Helens Council and the Cannington Shaw Preservation Trust CIC, is breathing new life into a landmark that’s as historically significant as it is unique.
Identified by Historic England as “the most intact example of a late 19th Century Bottle Shop anywhere in the world,” this Grade II listed structure is at the heart of an ambitious regeneration plan.
Scaffolding the Past for the Future
Once a symbol of St Helens’ thriving glassmaking industry, the No. 7 Bottle Shop is now the focus of a £1.3 million initiative funded by the Towns Fund. The project’s first phase is all about stabilising the structure, aiming for “Managed Ruin” status.
This approach ensures the building remains safe while preserving its character as a testament to the town’s industrial heritage.
For AJS Scaffolding, the task called for custom-designed solutions that could meet the challenges of such a historic site. Their scaffolding system, tailored to the building’s unique needs, has been vital in enabling the brickwork repairs and structural stabilisation required to secure its future.
“Partnering with AJS Scaffolding was an easy choice given their expertise and meticulous approach,” said Damian Mears, Managing Director of Clan Contracting Limited. “The complexities of a project like Cannington Shaw demand a team that can deliver both precision and care, and AJS Scaffolding has excelled in every aspect.”
A Community Connection
This isn’t just about bricks and mortar—it’s about preserving a piece of the town’s identity. For the people of St Helens, the Bottle Shop is a symbol of their heritage, a link to the ingenuity that made the region a global leader in glassmaking.
“The regeneration of Cannington Shaw is not just about saving a building; it’s about bringing the community closer to its rich heritage,” said Colin McEllin, Operations Director at Clan Contracting. “The scaffolding solutions provided by AJS ensure the safety and integrity of the structure while enabling us to carry out essential restoration work.”
Dan McGregor, Operations Director at AJS Scaffolding, reflected on the significance of the project: “Being selected to provide scaffolding for such a historically significant site is a true honour. The complexities of Cannington Shaw have pushed our team to showcase the very best of what we do—precise, reliable scaffolding solutions that enable vital restoration work. We’re thrilled to contribute to the preservation of a landmark that means so much to the St Helens community.”
Building a Legacy
As this phase of the restoration progresses, the broader vision for the No. 7 Bottle Shop is beginning to take shape. Plans are underway to transform the site into a vibrant community space, envisioned as a venue for events, a hub for local charities, and a living museum celebrating St Helens’ industrial innovation.
The £1.3 million Towns Fund grant, secured through a successful business case submission, has made this vital work possible. It’s a testament to the commitment of all involved to protect and repurpose this extraordinary landmark for future generations.
AJS Scaffolding: Supporting Heritage and Community
For AJS Scaffolding, this project is more than just a job—it’s a demonstration of their ethos of precision, sustainability, and community focus.
As they continue to expand their presence across Merseyside, their involvement in the Cannington Shaw regeneration underscores the crucial role scaffolding plays in preserving the past while shaping the future.
The Bottle Shop’s restoration is more than a celebration of history; it’s a powerful reminder of what’s possible when craftsmanship, collaboration, and care come together.
Thanks to the efforts of AJS Scaffolding and their partners, this iconic landmark will continue to inspire and connect the St Helens community for generations to come.
