HISTORIC buildings such as Earlestown Town hall and the Gamble Building are keystones in the civic identity of proud former industrial towns such as Newton-le-Willows and St Helens.


Both the council and the public should recognise their civic importance and how they contribute fantastic architecture to both town centres. I don’t think that has always been done particularly well, but now is the time to change that. 


The flip-side is that preserving heritage is never cheap. But that doesn’t mean that is isn’t worth doing.

Both buildings need a sustainable solution to make them accessible to the public and keep them treasured as important buildings.
Political decisions need to be made about funding the projects, but personally, I think this is something we have to do.


Labour Councillors in Newton and Earlestown have always been strong advocates to bring Earlestown Town Hall back into use and so the latest announcement that this will be achieved is encouraging.

St Helens Star:

Earlestown town hall

I hope Earlestown Town Hall can become some sort of community hub, with Newton Amateur Dramatic & Operatic Society occupying the public hall once more, and a variety of services such as Helena, Council, the Job Centre, NHS and other public sector partners occupying the ground floor.


That, combined with a new build police station in both town centres will be much needed public centre investment.


Heritage doesn’t come cheap. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t good value for money to protect our proud identity and keep buildings functional.


Seve-Gomez Aspron, 
Newton Councillor