We are proud to announce that the renovation of The Netherdale Stand at Gala Fairydean Rovers Football Club, a concrete brutalist structure designed by the renowned architect Peter Womersley and Category A listed, has been shortlisted by the Institution of Structural Engineers in this year’s Structural Awards. This is a significant recognition for Narro, who acted as Lead Consultant on this project, and highlights the intricate work carried out. The Narro Team, led by Technical Director Steve Wood, are thrilled by this fantastic achievement.
The stand, designed and constructed in the 1960s, is a striking example of modern brutalist architecture, characterised by its raw concrete form and bold, uncompromising lines. Over the decades, the structure had begun to show signs of wear, with the effects of weathering and time taking a toll on the integrity of the concrete. The Narro Team was tasked with assessing the state of the structure and developing appropriate repair processes. The challenge was to preserve the particular architectural features of Womersley’s design while addressing the structural issues that had developed. In doing so, innovative repair techniques were established.
The project team consisted of Narro as the Lead Consultant, with the support of Reiach and Hall Architects, Concrete Repairs Limited as the Principal Contractor, and Morham & Brotchie as Quantity Surveyor and Cost Consultant. Caster and mould maker Gray Concrete provided specialist advice on the replication of the original surface textures, while Irons Foulner provided advice on building services improvements.
Commenting on the project, the IStructE judges referenced the cutting-edge and bespoke repair techniques, and how these set a precedent for the future maintenance of architecturally important reinforced-concrete structures.
Steve Wood further commented; “I am delighted that the Netherdale Stand has been shortlisted. This is a project that I felt very passionate about. The building is a stunning example of concrete brutalism, and as these structures age, how we handle their care and repair is going to become increasingly important. The Gala project is really at the forefront of these efforts.”
Being shortlisted for the Institution of Structural Engineers for these international Structural Awards is a testament to the skill, dedication, and respect for architectural heritage demonstrated by the team led by Narro. The Netherdale Stand is a restored symbol of mid-20th-century architecture, ready to serve the community for many more years to come. This project not only celebrates the legacy of Peter Womersley but also showcases how modern architecturally important buildings can be cared for with the same conservative rigour as our older building stock.
To find out more on how the project progressed, please visit the dedicated project page here.
