Final chapter for library and art gallery roof replacement project
Culture and tourism01 May 2026
A project to replace the roof on Kettering library and Art Gallery is coming to an end, with the scaffolding and tent covering the site due to start to be removed from Monday 11 May.
The tent covering will be removed under a 5-day road closure from 11 May, and then on a phased approach the rest of the scaffolding will be removed, revealing the new roof works and refurbished cupola.
Throughout the works, it was deemed unnecessary to replace one section of roof on the library as it was in good condition, which has helped with further reducing the overall cost of the project. As the scaffolding is removed, there will be some final works required before the library can move back into its permanent home and open - it is anticipated this will be in July 2026. Once the library has moved, works will be carried out to fully open the whole site.
This is an exciting milestone for the site - the final chapter in the project. For the first time in nearly a year, residents of Kettering and further afield will be able to see the library roof and the excellent work that has been completed on site.Cllr Greg Wilcox, the council’s Executive Member for Communities
Once the scaffolding has come down, there will be some final touches to be undertaken. But we are so nearly there and almost ready to welcome residents back through the original library doors. Please keep an eye out for more details coming soon.
I can’t wait to see these beautiful buildings fully open and the new roof in the sunshine - it really will be a sight to behold.Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council
Looking to the future, this stunning part of Kettering - home to the Alfred East Art Gallery, Museum and a fantastic library will be the centre of Northamptonshire Day this Autumn.
As the final slates are installed on the roof, tiles decorated by the local community have been installed on the side of the library facing Sheep Street. A video of some of the tiles being installed can be seen on Facebook.
Whilst the scaffolding is being removed, there will be short term restrictions on Sheep Street with the road closed from Monday 11 May for up to a week to allow a crane on site to remove the scaffolding currently on site.
There will be a full diversion in place and two-way access will be maintained for local businesses and residents only via Market Street.
Work continues internally, following engagement with local stakeholders, on the new identity for the wider site and an announcement will be made soon, alongside further updates about the full re-opening of the site.