Conservation & Heritage Issue 52 Summer/Autumn 2026 - Flipbook - Page 54
that is needed, and what changes will be feasible, to an
understanding of the appropriate materials required and the
sensitivities that come with working with an older building,
including knowing the type of problems that the repair
project could throw up once work starts.
In 2010, Andrew Boyce was appointed architect for St
Oswald’s and from then detailed examinations were
undertaken at the church and a master mason, Matthias
Garn, was appointed to investigate the tower.
“One of the things we came to appreciate was that a
conservation-accredited architect brings much more than
technical expertise,” explains MaryRose.
Historic buildings are not simply older versions of modern
buildings; they function differently and often require different
repair techniques and materials. Conservation is not about
doing what looks familiar; it is about understanding how the
building is designed to work and respecting that.
“Andrew Boyce helped us understand not only the condition
of the tower but also the significance of the building and the
reasons behind the proposed repairs. He translated complex
conservation issues into language that the Parochial Church
Council and the congregation could understand and helped
us navigate what was often a complicated process.”
At the National Churches Trust, we recommend that churches
seek at least three quotes from different architects. Inviting
the person who does their five-year Quinquennial Survey, or
equivalent building survey or condition report, for a quote is
a good place to start. They are likely to have knowledge of the
building already, and even if they do not want to take on the
project, they could offer advice or guidance, as they know the
building well. If a church knows it is likely to go to a major
funder for grant funding, it would be worthwhile reviewing
their procurement rules early on.
Late in 2010 there was a public meeting in which slides of the
damage to the tower were shown and Andrew and Matthias
answered questions.
Hosting public meetings like this early on is a great way to
involve the local community and congregation in a church’s
repair project. It not only gives them an understanding of
the issue, but a way to feed in to the changes that could be
made. This helps the architect too, as they don’t just want to
understand the condition of the building, but who it is used
by and how, and how this might change in the future.
When comparing quotes, we advise that churches should
interview the architects too. You need someone who is
realistic about what can be achieved within the budget.
Churches are going to be working with this person or firm
for a long time and on something that can be personally
demanding and time-sensitive, so finding someone they get
along with is key.
Damp, cold and musty buildings are not going to attract new
users. By advertising the changes that might be made and
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