Work commences on revival of historic Strawberry Fields site

The transformation of Liverpool’s globally recognised Strawberry Field into a training hub for people with disabilities and a visitor centre has begun, with construction company Robertson starting on site.

John Lennon played as a child at the former children’s home, and it went onto inspire him to create one of the Beatles’ greatest hits – Strawberry Fields Forever.

The Salvation Army, which owns Strawberry Field, has been appealing for funds to revitalise the site. Now, Robertson, one of the largest independently owned construction, infrastructure and support services companies in the UK, and the company selected to complete the build has broken ground on the project.

Julie Baird, John Lennon’s sister, buried a time capsule as work commenced.

The revival will include the construction of a new steel framed, flat roofed 1,340m² training hub and visitor centre, with extensive soft landscaped area, including horticultural learning areas. The centre will include a café, gift shop and museum section, alongside prayer and sensory areas. Within the training hub, activity spaces, an exhibition area, catering kitchen and offices will all be used to inspire those in attendance and give them confidence and capabilities to enter a field of work they may not have considered.

The cladding will comprise of natural timber and a contrasting brick façade in an effort to compliment the surrounding environment. Much of the existing wooded areas will be retained to protect the natural privacy of the site.

The site’s current boundary features will be re-used and added to. The outside areas will have hard landscaped footpaths and outdoor furniture to ensure visitors can fully appreciate the surroundings.

Thomas Burfitt-Williams Head of Capital Projects at Salvation Army, said: “Robertson demonstrated community experience with an awareness of the great importance The Salvation Army attaches to the long term success of this project for generations to come, both as a centre of learning and discovery, and as a place of cultural significance for Liverpool and the wider world. We are excited about working with Robertson in creating an asset for all to enjoy and benefit from.”
Robertson is one of the largest independently owned construction, infrastructure and support services companies in the UK. Dirk Pittaway, Managing Director of Robertson North West, said: “The commitment the Salvation Army has shown to ensure a new start for Strawberry Field is impressive. Our team will take great pride in being involved in a project that not only has such a strong and globally recognised heritage, but will also be an exceptional service for young people across the North West once complete.

“We look forward to progressing the construction and delivering a centre that reflects the remarkable history of the site and will be used for generations to come.”

Robertson will be working with key partners including: built environment consultancy, Curtins; architects, Hoskins; and property and construction consultants, Gleeds.