Set in an urban context in a poor and deprived area of Gateshead, St Chad’s was built as a ‘Cathedral for the Workers’ and is now on the Historic England Heritage at Risk register. The looming exterior does not prepare one for the shimmering interior, rich with a mix of high-gothic and rich fixtures and fitting from the Arts and Crafts Movement.
In the 1980s the rear west end of the church was stripped of pews and a significantly sized community hall was added, covering two-thirds of the nave. The community hall is now tired, and its use dwindling.
Crosby Granger Architects have worked on several phases of repair, mostly associated with the roofs, of which there are 11. The first phase of works saw the tower and nave roof re-roofed, following a successful application to the Roof Repair Fund. Since then, several small areas of repairs have been carried out where dry-rot has caused issue, and leaks through one of the many gutters.
A large commercial kitchen has just been completed as part of a recent phase of works, to enable the church to recommence their lunch club, and also attract other groups that wish to deliver cookery classes.
At present, Chloe Granger is part of the team guiding the PCC through a National Lottery Heritage Fund application. If successful, the works will ensure all roofs are re-roofed to ensure the longevity of the fabric. The interior community hall will be overhauled, including the introduction of a lift and other adaptations to ensure that the building is fully accessible.
The activities wrapped up into the NLHF application are a-plenty, many of which are directly related to the building and traditional skills training; a key part of any project these days, whether NLHF funded or not, to increase awareness in heritage and increase interest in the craftsmanship and skills required to repair, conserve and adapt them for the future.
DISCIPLINES COVERED IN COMMISSION:
• Site evaluation and historic building assessments, including structural surveys,
• Production and review of Heritage significance statements,
• Technical advice on details of conservation and design for listed buildings,
• Application and gaining of statutory consents,
• Detailed technical repair and alteration, and giving of technical advice to client,
• Consultation with a range of professional disciplines,
• Grant application assistance and advice,
• Delivery of contract from inception through to completion on site.
As part of our ongoing feasibility work for the Lancaster Canal Regeneration Partnership CIC, we’ve been exploring a range of potential approaches to improving accessibility through Hincaster Tunnel 🏗️
These early options focus on how level access might be achieved while respecting the tunnel’s historic fabric and unique character - current ideas under review include options such as a boardwalk and a `Roman road`.
These ideas form part of an early-stage assessment, intended to help understand what might be possible in the future. Further structural investigation will be essential to determine how any intervention could be delivered without compromising the historic tunnel.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue the exploratory work and supporting the long-term ambitions for the @towpath_trail 🌿
#Architecture #Lancaster #LancasterCanalTowpathTrail
Dec 1
We`ve been appointed by the Lancaster Canal Regeneration Partnership CIC to explore the next steps in improving accessibility along the Lancaster Canal @towpath_trail 🍃
Our role is to prepare a feasibility study focused on the future potential of Hincaster Tunnel - a 346m Grade II listed structure and one of the canal’s most significant heritage assets.
The study will consider:
👉 How level access might be achieved
👉 How the tunnel’s historic character can be better revealed
👉 How this remarkable structure could become a true `jewel in the crown` of the Towpath Trail
This work builds on ongoing investment along the 28-mile route, including earlier upgrades near Stainton supported by Sport England, and more recent funding through the Rural Shared Prosperity Fund to continue improvements toward Holme.
We look forward to helping shape the possibilities for this much-loved route, celebrating the heritage of the important historic site while exploring ways it could become more accessible for everyone 🙌
#Architecture #Lancaster #LancasterCanalTowpathTrail
Nov 28
Located within the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Thwaite Farm is a working farm with a collection of traditional buildings steeped in rural character. We were commissioned to oversee the careful repair and conservation of the Grade II listed barn complex, ensuring its continued use and longevity within the landscape 🌿🚜
A detailed inspection and structural appraisal identified long-term issues including water ingress, timber decay, and structural deformation. The repair strategy focused on sensitive conservation, undoing unsympathetic past alterations and reinstating traditional craftsmanship throughout.
The barns were re-roofed using locally sourced Burlington Blue Strong slates, traditionally laid in random widths and diminishing courses to match the original vernacular form. Air-dried oak was used for replacing structural timbers, each jointed by hand to mirror historic techniques.
This project exemplifies a balanced approach to heritage and function - preserving the integrity of traditional rural architecture while supporting the ongoing life of a working farm 🌾
#HeritageConservation #Architecture #HeritageArchitecture #YorkshireDales
Nov 24
Built in the 1850s, Hutchinson’s Buildings feature a striking curved façade and Corinthian columns. Our restoration work revitalizes these defining elements, safeguarding their architectural integrity. By adapting the space for contemporary use, this project showcases our expertise in restoring heritage structures while ensuring their relevance for modern needs.
St Helen’s Church, a Grade I listed medieval structure, is undergoing vital conservation to address masonry deterioration caused by unsuitable past repairs. Our work focuses on carefully repointing with traditional lime mortar, ensuring the building’s long-term stability. By preserving its historic fabric, we safeguard its architectural and cultural significance, allowing future generations to appreciate its heritage.
Appointed to work on the renowned St Oswald's Church in Grasmere, set within the idyllic village in the Lake District, Crosby Granger Architects is undertaking sensitive conservation efforts. Our focus includes preserving the church's historic features and ensuring its structural integrity, allowing this iconic place of worship to continue serving the community and visitors alike.
We have been appointed architects for Muncaster Castle, and conducted a series of ongoing conservation work to protect this Grade I listed historic site. Our research, condition surveys, and restoration efforts ensure the longevity of this architectural treasure. This project highlights our expertise in heritage stewardship, maintaining the castle’s legacy while enhancing its visitor experience.
