Durham Cathedral

Client

The Dean and Chapter of Durham Cathedral

Architect/client representative

Purcell Architects

Contract value

£750,000

The sheer size of the building with its massive towers and pinnacles has required constant attention over successive generations to maintain the extensive stonework facades and has survived remarkably well considering its exposure to the vagaries of the North East Weather invading armies, and wartime activities.

The quinquennial inspection identified the requirement for intervention to many areas of the historic fabric of the Cathedral to prevent further erosion of the stonework and HPR were delighted to be involved in the first phase of extensive masonry repairs to this unique historical and much loved building.

Work commenced in August 2014 and was completed nearly a year later in July 2015, engaging 15 of our time-served heritage skilled stonemasons.

Durham Cathedral carved stone replacements

I just wanted to take a moment to thank the HPR team for all the hard work delivered throughout the MEND works project.

The quality of the completed works is excellent and is a real credit to the professionalism and commitment shown on site. It has been clear throughout that a high standard has been maintained, and the end result reflects that.

We appreciate the collaborative approach taken and the effort made to ensure the works were delivered smoothly and to a high standard.

Gary Leybourne - Design Services Manager -

Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

The Dean and Chapter and its Fabric Advisory Committee is thrilled with the quality of work produced by HPR Ltd. The skills exhibited in stone masonry are particularly fine. Managers and staff have developed good relations with the client team – we couldn’t have asked for better attitude or commitment.

Lindy Gilliland Testimonial -

Lindy Gilliland - Newcastle Cathedral Project Manager

"From my personal perspective, this was one of the best projects I have been involved with over the last 35 years as a Chartered Building Surveyor, RICS Accredited in Building Conservation. My client role on this was a complete pleasure, because you and your team were first class, complementing the excellent professional design team. Well done!"

Richard Dunn -

PCC Project Co-ordinator, for St John the Baptist Church, Wilberfoss

"I am glad we chose HPR as our partner for this project, and I do believe we are partnered as you have the same passion and respect for our museum as we do. The work itself is of high standard, and the behind the scenes support is much appreciated too. I would not hesitate to recommend HPR to anyone who needs restoration or building work for historic properties. It has been a pleasure to work with you."

Diane Stephens -

Manager at Heugh Battery Museum

"HPR recognise, and allow for, the necessary archaeological recording to take place during consolidation work and the disruptions that this may cause to their planned programme of work comes as no surprise to them. This awareness means that their workforce is able to be pro-active in informing the archaeologist of any possible instances when recording may be necessary."

Mick Krupa -

NPHT Archaeologist at Nenthead Smeltmill

"Historic Property Restoration carried out the first phase of the refurbishment of the Grade II listed Town Hall. The company were extremely professional in their approach throughout the entire process as befits a company with extensive experience in the conservation and restoration sector."

David Lodge -

Greater Morpeth Development Trust

"Historic Property Restoration deliver good quality work to programme and budget on a regular basis. They are reliable and value for money."

Ian Merritt -

English Heritage Conservation and Maintenance Manager