Update on the Tower Restoration
Update 17/8/24
The work has got off to a slow start but now the scaffolding is complete, real work can begin. As many will have seen and the photos suggest, the scaffolding is extensive. It needs to provide access to the very top of the turret including the weathervane and because the Church is Grade One listed, the scaffolding cannot be attached to it hence the extra frame on the north side which is linked across the back (East) side to connect and hold up the main scaffolding to the south.
Scaffolding is also necessary inside the bell chamber to allow the timbers of the roof to be inspected on the underside. Here the challenge was to fit the frame to allow safe access but still, if possible, allowing the bells to be rung. This has been achieved.
Fortunately, the inspection showed that there are no significant problems with the roof timbers with only some additional wedging of the roof supports required.
The lead of the roof which is over 100 years old going by the graffiti, has been lifted in places to check the timbers and again no concerns were identified. The roof will need some minor modification to comply with the latest standards for correct drainage, but this was anticipated.
The replacement stones for the turret are on order, including the
critical large lintel stone to replace the cracked one above the door. These have to be quarried, then cut and dressed to the correct size and shaped to fit the octagonal Turret.
The full extent of the work required on the small spire above the turret will become apparent when its lead gutter (which will be replaced) and the old shingles are removed. But so far this appears to be much as expected.
There is a long way to go but a very positive start has been made.
Finally, our apologies to anyone inconvenienced by congestion on the road at the top of the hill cause by the unloading of the scaffolding materials. This is now complete and hopefully improved procedures will be in place when the scaffolding is removed. As the contactors are quick to point out the church is a difficult site to access.
Thank you to the local community for your support without which the work would not be possible.
And a big thank you to all our charity funders.
- Benefact Trust
- Friends of All Saints
- Friends of Kent Churches
- Garfield Western
- National Churches Trust
- Wolfson Trust
- Anonymous Grant
- St John’s College
Tony Henley
All Saints Staplehurst, Building and Grounds
