Pearce Construction successfully completed the transformation of 36 and 37 Boutport Street in Barnstaple, delivering a landmark regeneration project for North Devon Council that brings together heritage restoration, contemporary design and new opportunities for the town’s creative economy.
Revitalising Barnstaple town centre
Part of the wider Market Quarter regeneration, the development forms a key element of the council’s long-term vision to revitalise Barnstaple town centre. Supported by funding from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund and Cultural Development Fund, the scheme creates a vibrant new destination in the heart of North Devon.
At 36 Boutport Street, a Grade II listed building dating back to the early 20th century, extensive refurbishment works have carefully restored the building’s historic character while adapting it for modern use. Original features, including lime plasterwork, sash windows and decorative cornicing, have been repaired and reinstated, while new services, improved accessibility and internal alterations have created flexible workspaces and a ground floor café and events space.
Architectural heritage with contemporary occupation
Delivering modern performance standards within a historic structure presented a number of challenges, requiring sensitive integration of new building services and structural repairs. The result is a building that retains its architectural heritage while supporting contemporary occupation.
Adjacent to this, 37 Boutport Street has been redeveloped to provide new workshop units and residential accommodation, arranged around a central arcade that creates a new pedestrian route linking the town centre with Barnstaple Central Car Park. The scheme also incorporates salvaged architectural elements from the original façade, preserving the site’s history within a modern structure.
Together, the two buildings form Boutport Street Studios – a new creative hub offering a mix of studios, offices, workshops and community-focused spaces designed to support cultural and creative industries.
A significant milestone
The development also enhances connectivity and public realm within the Market Quarter, creating an inviting new gateway that encourages footfall and strengthens links between key areas of the town centre.
With expressions of interest now being welcomed by North Devon Council, Boutport Street Studios is set to become a thriving hub for creative businesses, helping to drive economic growth and bring renewed energy to Barnstaple.
Completion of the project marks a significant milestone in the wider regeneration of the town, showcasing the value of combining heritage-led design with forward-thinking construction.
