Construction firm Kier has completed work on the Shakespeare North Playhouse, a new theatre in Prescot which combines local heritage with 21st century facilities.

The attraction, which is the first of its kind in the Liverpool city region, was handed over to Knowsley Council on Friday, 27 May. It was procured through the North West Construction Hub framework, with work starting in early 2020.

The new building was designed and constructed to remain true to the authenticity of the Jacobean design while making it a modern, vibrant and accessible space for visitors. The Playhouse includes a flexible theatre with capacity for between 320 and 472 seats, based on the iconic 17th century 'cockpit-in-court' design, digital gallery, visitor centre, additional performance spaces including an outdoor performance garden, coffee shop and office space. The theatre is built from reclaimed hardwood, designed and crafted by hand; a traditional method of construction rarely used in the 21st century.


In 2020, Kier launched the Building for a Sustainable World framework which focuses on both environmental and social sustainability and this project was part of a UK-first trial of a technology to support our strategy to deliver net zero carbon emissions.

Through its work with procurement partner, Sunbelt Rentals, the project trialled the use of the PUNCH Flybrid flywheel technology to assess if the innovation could reduce the energy required to power a static crane.

The innovation is derived from a similar technology used in Formula 1 racing and is a flywheel energy storage system which decreases fuel usage by reducing the generator size needed to power the crane on site, while still providing enough power for it to be used correctly.

The main objectives of the trial were carbon savings and a reduction in pollutants, as well as providing social value benefits to the surrounding community, including reduced air pollution and less traffic movements and congestion. The trial showed that the fuel consumption was reduced by 40%, which also resulted in 40% less carbon being produced.

Sean Fenner, regional director at Kier Construction North & Scotland, commented: "Shakespeare North Playhouse is a unique project that we know means so much to the people of Prescot and the wider community. Working alongside our local supply chain partners, Kier has utilised its technical skill as well as trialled sustainable innovations to deliver a modern, accessible and energy efficient building.

"Working collaboratively with Knowsley Council, Kier is proud to have played its part in delivering this project which will have such a strong cultural impact regionally and, indeed, nationally. Our aim has also been to leave a lasting legacy within the local community and over the past two years Kier have held 25 community engagement events, engaged with over 12,500 young people, created 23 jobs and provided 20 apprenticeships."