Progress of Capital Works

Now that work has started on site, it has been a busy few weeks.

Early focus was on setting up the site in the paddock area, which will eventually become the carpark, and putting in  temporary road within this area.

The crane has also been on site to remove the roof ironwork, which is being taken away for inspection and repair. Cast Iron Welding Services (CIWS) will be undertaking this specialist aspect of the project, which includes a gas fusion welding process and cleaning and painting with red oxide primer.

The retort house roof is probably the most historically significant part of the whole building,  comprising a series of iron trusses, with angle laths to support the clay tiles (previously removed), all thought to be original. This is a rare surviving example of a ‘fireproof’ roof and warrants significant efforts to conserve it.

Where other areas of the roof were still to have the tiles removed, Apex Ecology were on hand to oversee this work, as part of our Natural England licensed work. They ensured the safe removal of 6 brown long eared bats.