RESTORATION WORK
Identified in 2015 as a major priority for restoration, the 13th century south lesser transept roof has been restored by having the lead removed and re-cast. The timber and stonework have also been repaired.
The five-year survey in 2015 identified this part of the Minster structure as being a priority for repair and restoration. Serious decay caused by the leaking roof, due to the life-expired lead work, has created water-logged timbers and fungal decay. Sixty leaks were discovered during the survey which reported, “an urgent programme of recovering the high level roof is now a priority for the Minster since the medieval roof timbers are now being put at serious risk”.
The project was completed in March 2021 with
- renewed lead roof coverings on the south lesser transept roof
- adjustment of gutters to meet current standards
- repairs to the timber roof structure
- repairs to eroded stonework
The project succeeded in
- reducing negative environmental impacts such as by using natural materials from sustainable sources
- site waste being managed
- using traditional building materials
- recycling the lead which was re-cast
- using low energy lighting
The restoration work is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Beverley Minster Old Fund.
March 2020. The contractor’s cabins are placed and secured. Scaffolding erectors begin work.
5 April 2020. The scaffolding rises by 2 more levels to give access to the gable windows.
16 April 2020. The scaffolding continues.
28 April 2020. The scaffolding has been extended to the top of the transept roof in preparation for a waterproof covering.
1 May 2020. A view from the east of the south lesser transept roof.
30 May 2020. The temporary canvas roof has been fixed to the metal frame so that work can begin at the beginning of June on stripping the lead.
March 2021. Restoration of the lesser transept roof complete.