Heritage apprenticeships: The Harris Museum regeneration

Preston City Council places great weight on social value, where a more comprehensive benefit can be gained in a local community by delivering public contracts and services.

This naturally leads to the Council's commitment and priority of Community Wealth Building - or, as it's better known - the Preston Model.

Conlon Construction takes pride in offering apprentices high-quality, hands-on experience that supports their growth while strengthening the construction industry's future.

Michael Conlon, chairman of Conlon Construction, said:

"For more than 60 years, Conlon Construction has proudly called Preston home, and The Harris has been a source of inspiration for our team since childhood. Taking on the transformation of this iconic landmark into a 21st-century facility is both a privilege and a responsibility we hold deeply.

"Working again with the skilled stonemasons at Bullen Conservation allowed us to infuse heritage craftsmanship into this project in a truly meaningful way. From day one, we've been committed to involving the Preston community - our local workforce, students, and community groups - at every stage. We're proud that 80% of the project funding has been reinvested locally, with 348 local contractors from the surrounding area (within 30 miles) and more than £5.5 million directed into local supply chains to date.

"With educational visits, 'hard-hat tours,' and 150 apprentice weeks so far dedicated to skill development, our goal is not only to restore an iconic building but to help build a prosperous future for Preston. In doing so, The Harris is a testament to the enduring power of community, heritage, and sustainable development."

Director, Yvonne Cunniff from Bullen Conservation talks about the importance of employing heritage apprentices in their business.

"For us, taking on apprentices is a strategic investment in our future workforce, enabling us to continue to preserve the UK's treasured heritage sites, buildings and monuments. Our apprentices bring fresh perspectives, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn which can really invigorate a project.

"We were delighted when the opportunity arose to involve apprentices, Sam and Joel, in The Harris restoration. Involving them in a complex project at such an early stage in their careers really accelerated their learning. The meticulous attention to detail offered them a unique opportunity to grow and learn specific skills, instilling a deep sense of responsibility and pride gained from working on such a culturally significant building.

"From their experience at The Harris, both Sam and Joel developed expertise far beyond that which can be achieved in a classroom environment alone, or on a less complex project. We see this experience, alongside what they learn at college, as critical for nurturing Bullen Conservation's next generation of highly skilled conservation professionals. 

"Joel, our heritage/bricklayer apprentice, gained valuable experience in cutting out masonry for indenting, learned how to use the Doff cleaning system, and how to undertake traditional lime mortar joint repairs.

"Sam, our heritage stonemason apprentice, carved stone pieces which have been indented on The Harris and learned how to carry out traditional gold leaf gilding - both requiring superb craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. 

"Sam also took part in the open day where he carried out demonstrations and spoke to members of the public about apprenticeships in stonemasonry.  This opportunity enabled Sam's confidence to grow immensely and filled him (and us) with a great sense of pride. 

"As a business, we are delighted with how Joel and Sam rose to the challenge. They have demonstrated a relentless commitment to personal and professional growth, and we know they'll play a crucial role in our continued success." 

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