New Project: John Rylands Library

The Grade I listed John Rylands Research Institute and Library is a landmark of Manchester’s cultural and academic identity, blending a rich history with Victorian neo‑Gothic architecture. Its dramatic stonework, cathedral‑like reading room, and Arts and Crafts details make it one of the city’s most striking buildings.

Connolly Scaffolding Ltd has built a strong reputation for delivering scaffolding solutions for listed and heritage buildings, where precision, protection, and respect are essential. Our team’s experience in navigating complex architectural features and strict conservation requirements has prepared us well for projects of national significance. Securing the contract to provide the scaffolding solution for the Grade I listed John Rylands Research Institute and Library is an honour for us as a company. Supporting the preservation of such an iconic Manchester landmark reflects both our technical capability and our commitment to safeguarding the city’s architectural heritage.

We are delivering temporary roof systems to facilitate essential remediation works. IBC water bowsers are being used as kentledge for the temporary roofs because site constraints make them the most practical ballast solution, and they can be easily filled on site to achieve the required weight. Their modular design allows them to be transported and positioned efficiently in restricted-access areas while providing the necessary ballast to stabilise the temporary roof against wind uplift and movement.