Conservation & Heritage Issue 52 Summer/Autumn 2026 - Flipbook - Page 58
to turn the conservation philosophy into reality. We also
received support from the Yorkshire Dales National Park and
the Diocese of Leeds.
bring together architects, surveyors, conservation specialists,
masons, DAC representatives and parish representatives to
discuss the lessons learned.
“The project reminded us that successful conservation
depends on many forms of expertise working together. No
single specialist held all the answers. The strength of the
project came from bringing those different perspectives
together around a shared goal.”
St Oswald’s is more than headline. It’s a case study in
how churches, specialists and heritage organisations can
work together to successfully solve complex conservation
problems.
Indeed, following the public backlash from the completed
repairs, the church was able to rely on their specialists who
could explain the evidence behind the decisions being made.
That gave the parish confidence to stand behind the project,
even when public opinion appeared divided.
“With hindsight, the publicity also created an opportunity,”
explains MaryRose.
“It started conversations about traditional building materials,
conservation philosophy and the stewardship of historic
churches that reached far beyond our parish.”
The church and local businesses also benefited from the
huge numbers of visitors who came to Askrigg to see the
tower because of the press reports.
© Andy Sillett & EASA
In 2025, St Oswald’s was awarded The King of Prussia Gold
Medal for their repair project by the National Churches Trust
and The Ecclesiastical Architects and Surveyors Associations
(EASA). And last month, the church hosted a study day to
CELEBRATING 32 YEARS
1994 TO 2026
John Weaver Contractors are a multi-award-winning Swansea based contractor
specialising in heritage and conservation projects.
Our building conservation division is focused on ensuring existing landmarks and
heritage buildings, which form the backbone of a significant portion of the Welsh
tourism industry, are kept safe, usable and aesthetically correct. Our dedicated team of
experts, builders and artisans understand not only the finer technical details when it
comes to conserving buildings, but also the heart and soul of the structures in our care.
We combine the strong traditional values of craftsmanship, an eye for quality and a
genuine care for the buildings on which we work, with the very latest in construction
techniques and materials.
By offering flexible small works and even
bespoke joinery alongside our core services of
contracting and building conservation we aim
to be a truly rounded turnkey supplier for
framework partners.
Alison Rees
Head of Business Development
Email: alison.rees@johnweaver.co.uk
Ceri Best
Director
Email: ceri.best@johnweaver.co.uk
Nathan Davies
Director
Email: nathan.davies@johnweaver.co.uk
Telephone: 01792 464004
Morfa House, 126 Neath Road, Hafod, Swansea. SA1 2JW
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