The Heritage Centre involves an extension to St Lawrence Church, a Grade II* Listed building. The tower of the church dates back to the 14th Century whilst the main body of the church dates back to the 17th Century. The extension includes demolition of the existing Hearse House and refurbishment of the boiler room which were later extensions to the church. The new building is situated to the north west of the church and connects to the tower on the line of the existing Hearse House. The levels within the site allow approximately 25% of the new extension to be buried below ground, setting the building within the existing landscape and reducing the visual impact of the extension within the churchyard and from the highway.

 

The development includes a new entrance which gives level access from the existing car park. A lobby space allows connection between the church and the new building. The majority of the extension has a multi-purpose space with exhibitions, presentation areas and a café area. The new service areas include toilets, a kitchen and store.

 

The church is a vital part of the community as a venue. The introduction of the Heritage Centre will continue the church's role, as a place for community assembly but will promote the heritage of the surrounding area and encourage a mixture of educational and leisure use.

 

The Washburn Heritage Centre received bronze in the RIBA Northern Network Awards 2011.