As a follow-on from the earlier item ‘Church Re-Roofing Project to Start Shortly’, here is further background information to the weekly progress reports that will be posted in coming weeks.
It was in 2017 that the church architect reported that the nave roof gutter support timbers were ‘soggy’. Already, this had caused the lead covering in the parapet gutters to tear and allow a sudden considerable downpour inside the church during a heavy storm. Happily, temporary Flashband tape has kept the water out so far.
Access to inspect and repair the rotting timbers requires disturbing the fragile and life-expired asbestos cement roof slates. Hence the whole roof covering on the nave and chancel has to be renewed.
Terne-coated stainless steel is recommended by English Heritage as weathering to look like lead but is not attractive to thieves. It has already been successfully used on the north aisle roof to replace the lead that was stolen in 2011.
Following successful fund raising over the last 4 years, including several major grants, an unexpected legacy and a conditional heritage grant, the Parochial Church Council (PCC) happily finds itself able to proceed with the work. Having scaffolding in place, high level masonry work and the gilding of the clock face was already included in this project.
A pre-contract site meeting was held between the architect, William Ashheton of GSSArchitecture, Darren Guest of The Leadworks (UK) Ltd, the main roofing contractor, and church representatives on 13 January 2022.
Scaffolding will be erected by A D Scaffolding around the roofs on 18 and 19 January in preparation for the main work to start on 31 January.
The PCC apologises for any disruption to its neighbours that is inevitable with the cramped road situation that is our inheritance.
The church will have to be closed for safety reasons during the work, but the churchyard will remain accessible and bellringing practices can continue. No services will be held in the church during February, or in March until safe access becomes available again.
Weekly progress reports will be posted on this website as the work continues.
GHP
< Church Re-Roofing Project to Start Shortly Report #1 >