An abandoned and vulnerable site is enhanced through community focus, conservation and innovation.
USL were pleased to work on the conservation repairs at The Church of St Mary the Virgin in Clophill, Bedfordshire; a Grade II* and also as a scheduled monument. The church foundation is believed to date from the 10th century and it was probably re-built around 1350. In the 1840s a new church was built in the centre of the village to accommodate a growing population and the old church was abandoned.
In the mid-20th century the lead was stolen from the roof and the church subsequently fell into ruin. Over the years it became a focal point for vandalism, fly-tipping, anti-social behaviour and graffiti resulting in the church remaining closed to the public and in disrepair.
Working in conjunction, Historic England and Clophill Heritage secured grants to aid in the stabilisation of the ruins, the conservation of the spiral stair and the installation of the viewing platform to revitalise the church.
The extensive conservation works included;
Working in conjunction, Historic England and Clophill Heritage secured grants to aid in the stabilisation of the ruins, the conservation of the spiral stair and the installation of the viewing platform.