Unwrapping the past at Sizergh Castle| Unwrapping the past at Sizergh Castle |
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A giant waterproof wrap and scaffolding which has enveloped the National Trust’s Sizergh Castle, Kendal, for the last two years, has finally been removed to reveal previously hidden features. Repair work has resulted in the replacement of the heavy cement pointing on the tower by more traditional lime mortar, allowing the natural stone to be on show and returning it to its former glory.The removal of the pointing from the 14th century tower has brought to light old doors and windows which were blocked up in the past. Visitors to Sizergh will be able to learn more about these exciting discoveries on new architectural tours this season. Other work has included lime rendering of the striking chimney stacks, re-building of the castellated parapets, the replacement of lead roofs and renewal of slate roofs on the 16th-century wings – all of which will prevent further water penetration into the castle. As well as being waterproof, the castle will be more energy efficient with the introduction of sheep’s wool insulation in all the roof-spaces. Repairs have also taken place to the historic glazing and carved stonemasonry and to the front garden steps. Tom Slater, who managed the project for the Trust, says: “This important work was carried out by a local contractor – Cox and Allen of Kendal using artisan tradesmen such as lead workers and roofers to re-roof leaking roofs, and masons to re-point many of the castle’s 2 metre thick walls, and to re-build defective chimney stacks, and parapets. Plasterers re-rendered high level features such as chimney stacks. What made the project challenging was undertaking the work without closing the castle to the public, and without risking damage to its historic interior or precious contents. We also had to protect the castle’s bat population. Cox and Allen, together with all their tradesmen, have taken great care in their work, and the results not only look fantastic, but of course will help preserve the fabric and interior of the castle for many years to come. We’re very grateful to English Heritage for its support in helping to fund this vital work”. Sandy Roy, Historic Buildings Architect for English Heritage, says ‘We are pleased to have been able to help the National Trust with this important repair project, particularly encouraging the use of traditional materials and craft skills, which have undoubtedly enhanced the appearance of the building’.” Whilst the project was underway, Trust staff set up live TV cameras showing the work in progress on the roof and chimneys, and has since assembled a photographic and video file of the work undertaken during the project. A ‘bat cam’ has also been set up to allow visitors to watch the movements of Sizergh’s nocturnal residents, which will be on view when the castle re-opens on March 15th. For further information on opening times and events please, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk or telephone 015395 60951. |