Dorset Chartered Builders, Greendale Construction Limited, has started work on the seventh phase of an 18-month building project for Highcliffe Castle, which will see the grade 1 listed building’s Penleaze Wing fully restored, the castle’s historic kitchen reinstalled, as well as the creation of new exhibition and activity spaces.
Working closely with Christchurch Borough Council and architects Rodney Melville and Partners, the repair and renovation works will include; the relaying of stone floors and new concrete ground slabs; overlaying of existing retained solid floors, with new oak flooring to key rooms; conservation of existing exposed brickwork and remaining original wall and ceiling finishes; overhauling previously repaired windows and external doors; repair of remaining stone staircase, and the extension of upper level stairs with timber; formation of 2 new lift shafts and 5 new or restored stairs; completion of a walkway at mezzanine level, and extending with new steel stair to first and second floor. All new mechanical and electrical services are being installed the Phase 7 areas.
A new conservation studio will also be created allowing an internationally important collection of stained glass to be restored and displayed. The castle will also welcome back some original pieces of furniture which are currently held in storage by the V&A.
Greendale’s renovation works are due for completion on 19 Feb, with the grounds, the beach and the castle kitchen remaining open throughout the winter. The castle itself will be closed to visitors for 5 months, with information boards charting the progress will be available for visitors to the grounds via communication boards on site, and through the social media.
Katie Ingham, Heritage Team Leader at Christchurch and East Dorset Councils, said: “We are delighted to have Greendale Construction Limited working on the Heritage Lottery funded project here at Highcliffe Castle, the team have extensive knowledge of our site and their expertise is going to be invaluable during our phase seven building work project.”
Rob Hooker, Director at Greendale Construction, commented: “We are delighted to be back at this historic castle to carry out further major restoration and renovation works. This phase will open up so much more of this wonderful building for all. We’ve got a lot to do, but once completed it will be amazing for visitors and users alike.”