Visitors to see conservation in action during 2013
Visitors to Glastonbury Abbey will be able to see conservation in action during 2013.
The iconic Abbot’s Kitchen – one of only a handful of medieval kitchens in the world to be intact – will be the first project to go live under the Rescue Our Ruins Appeal.
A 3D virtual model of the kitchen has been created and is the first measured survey in nearly two centuries – the last was done by renowned Victorian architect Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin, co-designer of the Houses of Parliament. The new survey showed how amazingly accurate Pugin’s work was but gave a clearer picture of the stone work needing conservation.
The public appeal for £500,000, launched in May, is helping to fund the conservation work along with a grant from Viridor Credits Environmental Company for £280,000.
Janet Bell, acting director, said: “Preparatory work will be undertaken from January to March. Depending on the work being undertaken visitors should still be able to go inside this impressive building but we advise them to check beforehand.
“From March, scaffolding will be erected around the building so that the conservation work on the stone can go-ahead.
“During this period we will be explaining the work that is being carried out to our visitors as they will not be able to see inside. We will have Living History guides talking to visitors about what is happening as well as running activities nearby.
“The Abbot’s Kitchen is the only element of the magnificent ranges of buildings surrounding the Abbey cloister which survived the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the time of Henry VIII.
“This work will bring history and conservation to life as we ensure the stonework of this ancient building survives in good condition in the future.”
The Rescue Our Ruins Appeal will also be funding work to The North Wall and the Lady Chapel, Crypt and Galilee.
“We have currently raised nearly £51,000, which is a fantastic amount. We are looking to extend our fund-raising plans during 2013 and would welcome businesses, community groups and schools getting in touch to discuss ideas,” added Janet.
Added: 19th January 2013