Standing in Nottingham, city-centre, St Peter’s Church had become ingrained with centuries of dirt and pollution. The project was to clean, preserve or replace stone as required; leaving a watertight building that retains its historical appearance.
Several processes were examined to clean the Gedling sandstone and the ‘Jos’ system was selected for most areas. Some though, were beyond cleaning without the risk of causing damage so a shelter coat of coloured lime wash was applied.
Great care was taken by the architects and Weldon Stone Enterprises to replace only those stones that were absolutely necessary for the structural integrity of the building. For example cracks in the tower were found to follow the line of a spiral staircase – in some places the wall was only 100mm thick. Similar problems were found in other areas where erosion had worn the structure to equally perilous levels.
Windows were examined and restored using new stonework only where necessary. Perfectly matching stonework was carved off site in the Weldon Stone Enterprises workshop.
As part of the contract we also undertook the re-leading of the vestry roof.
The location and constant use of St Peters in Nottingham created a challenge for our conservation team in terms of safety and security. Keeping youths off the structure on a Saturday night was just part of the project.
Weldon Stone Enterprises was pleased to receive a Commendation from Nottingham Civic Society for their restoration of St Peters.
Client:The PCC of St Peter’s Church
Architect: Latham Architects
Contractor: Weldon Stone Enterprises Limited