Heritage Conservation Restoration Ltd carried out the refurbishment of the East chancel of St James’ Church, along with some miscellaneous repairs.
Due to the presence of asbestos, the ceiling was removed which lead to the unexpected discovery of the original roof timbers and stencil decoration to the lime plastered panels, subsequently changing the scope of work for this project.
The original lime plaster was in in poor condition, so the panels were overboarded using Promat Masterboard to leave the original timbers exposed. To restore the timber to its original state, Heritage stripped the black staining and coated them with archdeacons solution to give a more natural appearance. The walls were redecorated and new lighting was installed which totally transformed the look of the chancel. Once the scaffold was removed, a new carpet was laid and the mosaic to the reredos was carefully cleaned. Images of the newly restored chancel can be seen in the gallery below.
Other miscellaneous works were carried out including a new metal gate to the vestry, restoration to the parquet flooring and the repair/relocation of oak timber memorial plaques which involved the carving of a damaged section of the carved oak timber moulding.
Heritage are proud to have inspired St James’ to raise funds to complete other restoration work at the church in the hope that in the future, more of the building can be restored in the same way.
