Transforming a local landmark

Located in a small suburb of Telford in Shropshire, Oakengates is home to a close-knit community centred around its theatre, shops, and cafés. The aim of the regeneration project was to bring a new lease of life to the area, improving its aesthetic appeal for local businesses while preserving its role as a cultural and social hub.

Vital to this transformation was upgrading the ageing shopfronts as they no longer reflected the character of the area. The Council appointed Morris Property as the main contractor to deliver the project, with HTL Windows and Doors Ltd commissioned to design and install new shop fronts in collaboration with Kestrel Aluminium Systems.

Bringing the district into the 21^st century

Revitalising the shopfronts formed part of a wider plan to rejuvenate the district. Existing canopies above the shops were removed to improve the natural light in each unit and to make the pedestrianised area in front of the shops feel more spacious. The plans also included the construction of ten new sustainable residential units and the creation of a larger public space to host events.

“While it was a straightforward job, a massive amount of construction work was needed to modernise the shopfronts,” said Mark Cerrone, General Manager, HTL Windows & Doors.

“We installed Kestrel Aluminium Systems’ double-glazed shopfronts on each of the units as we believe their shopfront system to be one of the best available. The fact it’s thermally broken means we’re always confident in its performance. We also installed Thermal Commercial Doors from Kestrel, all of which feature automatic swing for convenience and improved accessibility to the shops.

“Kestrel is our main supplier, we’ve always found them to be very flexible, and their lead times are excellent – typically just a week to ten days – which is far better than the industry standard.”

One job, one supplier

HTL Windows & Doors also specified powder coating finishes directly from Kestrel, which helped streamline logistics and reduce project costs. Kestrel’s in-house powder coating plant provides high quality finishes in a wide variety of RAL and BS colours and delivers a fast turnaround service to businesses across the UK.

“Having everything supplied and finished by Kestrel makes life a lot easier for us. Their in-house powder coating service means we can rely on consistent quality, quick turnaround time and clear communication throughout the project. This takes away the hassle of dealing with multiple suppliers,” explained Mark.

Breathing new life to the quarter

The new shopfronts have helped rejuvenate the district, giving the area a modern, unified appearance that complements the wider improvements.

“It’s completely changed the look of the area,” continued Mark. “The council wanted to rejuvenate the precinct and that’s exactly what’s been achieved. It looks fantastic now.”

The Oakengates Theatre Quarter project is a prime example of how close collaboration between contractors and suppliers can successfully modernise an area. Expertly installed by HTL Windows & Doors Ltd, the high-performance systems from Kestrel help improve accessibility and enhance the visual appeal of the shopping district.