Designed by Hodder+Partners in 1995 for the School of Electrical Engineering, this building was recognized for its innovative approach to steel, glass and concrete. However, for the past eight years the building has remained empty and plans to renovate it for educational purposes have been scrapped. write Dezeen.
The Centenary Building in Salford is under threat of demolition. Photo: Morley von Sternberg courtesy of the Twentieth Century Society
The planned demolition is part of a major redevelopment of Adelphi Village, supported by the University of Salford, Salford City Council and the English Cities Fund. They justify the decision by the fact that the outdated infrastructure of the building no longer meets modern standards.
At the same time, the organization "Twentieth Century Society" submitted an application for the status of a historical monument to preserve the building. In their opinion, the demolition is "completely irresponsible", especially given its cultural significance.
Photo: Hodder and Partners
RIBA chairman Jack Pringle also opined that all Stirling Prize winners deserve to be kept. He stressed the importance of reusing buildings to achieve sustainable development goals, but indicated that a comprehensive assessment of the building's carbon footprint would be necessary for a final decision.
A landmark decision is expected from Heritage England, which could set an important precedent for further protection of modern architecture in Great Britain.
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