John Taylor Bell Foundry operates from two unique Grade II* listed complexes dating back to 1859. When Haverstock was appointed the buildings were on the Historic England Risk Register, with the roof in particularly poor condition resulting in deterioration of the building fabric and its contents.
Our brief entitled the prioritisation of urgent repair works to this significant and complex industrial roof scape, quintessential to the historic identity of Loughborough.
Heritage & Conservation
UK Bell Foundries Trust
£790K + HLF Bid circa £8m
2018
To understand the complex site, it was paramount to take on a masterplan approach, assessing the poor condition. Urgent repairs were carried out in small phases, identified and supported by grant aid supplied from Historic England. Three phases of emergency repairs were carried out in parallel with the creation of comprehensive larger masterplan.
While the urgent repair work was on site we were able to take advantage of scaffold access and make temporary repairs to adjacent roofs which were not necessarily part of the original project. This flexible approach made best use of funds while ensuring every penny was spent on protecting the historic fabric and safe working environment within the foundry.
Regular design development and consultation meetings throughout the urgent repairs project brought together key stakeholders, including the foundry staff, who have been critical in building a comprehensive understanding of the complex history of this industrial site and the wider livelihoods and industries they support. This ensured Listed Building Consent, Planning Permission, and HE grant aid sign off were secured in a timely manner.
There is still much to do on site which necessitated the preparation of a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) grant application to secure funds to undertake the restoration of the remaining buildings and provide a new built section for improved public access and engagement, and a national bell archive centre and enhanced museum.
