R & M Williams Limited

An office in a theatre

Originally built in 1888, the Grade II listed Palace Theatre is the oldest surviving Welsh theatre. An economic growth catalyst for Swansea City Centre Area Regeneration Framework (SCARF), it required a creative, sympathetic approach to addressing city needs, while retaining the vibrant theatre character.

Made-safe, restored, reconfigured and refurbished, the derelict six-storey building transformed into a unique event and collaborative workspace. 

Swansea Council’s appointed Design Team (GWP Architecture; Hydrock, now Stantec; TC Consult) and early involvement from R&M Williams as Principal Contractor, brought Swansea Council’s vision to life - part of the ambitious £1bn regeneration programme, with funding from Welsh Government's Transforming Towns programme, and commercial aspects managed transparently via Project Bank Account.

R&M Williams have met many challenges and opportunities over the determining 2 yr period, challenges were based around expansion of the business and new sector growth and then as with every business managing the negative impact of Covid in March 2020.

Dealing with the successful outcomes 2019 was an excellent year for R&M as growth continued in the Aviation sector and Cladding replacement market post Grenfell. The projects at Bristol Airport allowed R&M to deliver £20m of award-winning construction. With 10million passengers passing through the Airport per year it also significantly raised the profile of the business in both Wales and the South West.

Through adversity R&M were engaged on recladding schemes on 3 towers for Newport City Homes and Fusion Tower, Bristol. R&M were also invited by both Welsh Government High Rise Safety committee & Westminster to present a “contractors’ perspective” on best practice.