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.
Last week at Holker Hall...
It was great to bring together landowners, estate managers and rural professionals to discuss how Whole Estate Planning can support long-term resilience through sustainable growth, environmental stewardship and meaningful community engagement.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, including our fellow speakers, panel members and attendees, for sharing valuable insights and contributing to some thought-provoking discussions around Biodiversity Net Gain, estate strategy and the evolving opportunities facing rural estates.
Thank you to @holkerhall for hosting us in such a beautiful setting.
Jun 9
We’re delighted to share that we have been shortlisted for the 2026 RTPI North West Awards in the Excellence in Plan Making Practice category for the Higham Whole Estate Plan!
Developed through a close partnership between Crosby Granger Architects and the Lake District National Park Authority, the plan sets out a long-term vision for a 1,170-acre rural estate. Bringing together landscape, heritage, biodiversity and rural enterprise, the WEP demonstrates how strategic planning can support resilient rural communities while safeguarding landscapes and enhancing what makes them special.
The project demonstrates the value of collaborative, landscape-scale planning in helping to shape rural places - identifying opportunities for sustainable change and lasting community benefit.
We’re proud to see this work recognised and would like to thank everyone who contributed to the project.
Jun 4
Creating community engagement for an estate 🤝
Community engagement is one of the three core pillars of sustainable estate management. Our Whole Estate Plan ensures the estate is aligned with local aspirations.
We begin by listening to the community to understand their needs, concerns, and hopes for the area. This helps us identify opportunities to enhance connectivity, create employment and improve visitor access, all while respecting the character and tranquillity of the Lake District.
By aligning estate plans with community priorities, Higham can support a thriving local economy while ensuring a sense pride among residents.
#WholeEstatePlan #LandOwners #LakeDistrictNationalPark
May 29
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.
