First-Ever Stirling Prize Winner Faces Redevelopment
The Centenary Building at the University of Salford, recipient of the 1996 RIBA Stirling Prize, is set to be demolished following approval by Salford City Council. This decision comes despite opposition from campaigners and conservation group Twentieth Century Society, which failed to secure heritage listing for the building.
Historic and Architectural Significance
Designed by Hodder+Partners and completed in 1995, the building was celebrated for its innovative design in steel, glass, and concrete. Initially home to the School of Electrical Engineering, it later housed the Faculty of Art and Design Technology before being vacated eight years ago.
Catherine Croft, Director of the Twentieth Century Society, expressed disappointment:
“This decision fails to recognise the building’s heritage value and misses an opportunity for environmentally sustainable reuse.”
Historic England declined heritage listing in December 2024, citing functional flaws and insufficient national significance.
A Controversial Decision
While praised for its architectural merit upon winning the Stirling Prize, the building faced criticism for issues like noisy vents and temperature control. Historic England stated:
“The Centenary Building lacks the special interest in a national context required to merit listing.”
The demolition is part of the Adelphi Village redevelopment project, with work scheduled to begin on 1 March 2025.
Campaigners Push for Preservation
Croft argued the building’s historical relevance as the first Stirling Prize winner:
“Relying on 30-year-old hearsay about functionality undermines its significance.”
The Twentieth Century Society continues to advocate for the preservation of modern architectural heritage, recently campaigning to protect other significant structures like Grimshaw Architects’ Waterloo International Terminal.