In the first event of its kind, on Saturday 19 November we were delighted to be able to host some of our current supporters and interested parties on a tour of the St Andrew’s Project – the part restoration and refurbishment part construction project which will convert the building into an inspirational teaching and learning space. The site was handed over to the contractor, Felthams at the end of April and until the project is completed they control access to the site, special permission being required to gain access to the site, making this a very special occasion.
Visitors were invited into the Warden’s room for a coffee and the opportunity to take a look at the project plans prior to receiving an introductory talk led by Al MacEwen, Director of the Bradfield Society and Development. Attendees were then split into smaller touring parties hosted by Julia Bond, Capital Project Programme Manager, and Mark Hurrell, Feltham’s Site Manager.
One group ‘took the high road’ first and visited the work that is being undertaken on the roof. All of the 
original roof tiles have now been removed, the rafters inspected and repaired as required, then replacement roofing materials put in the place. Whilst all the roofing materials are new, much care has been taken to match the original items and handcrafted red clay tiles are being used, as per the refurbishment of the Bloods corridor roof. Visitors commented positively on the attention to detail and workmanship on display and the pride in the project was very evident in the way the Site Manager spoke about the work being undertaken.
‘The low road’ tour took visitors inside the building via a side door prior to the intended entrance from the link building being made through the South Transept later in the project. In spite of the dominant presence of the scaffold birdcage upon entering the building, the size and potential of the space are undeniable. Visitors were as fascinated to hear about all of the work being undertaken to bring the original features of this historical building to life as they were to learn about how the building would be subdivided into complementary teaching and learning spaces.
Post-tour visitors then returned to the Warden’s room for a well-earned and delicious lunch, prepared by our wonderful on-site catering team and an opportunity to talk further about the Project.
Many thanks to Felthams for their permission to conduct this tour, the experience was very much appreciated by all.
The intention will be to host more of these visit days in the New Year, with dates to be circulated in due course. Each tour will be unique and dependent on the stage of the project. We very much looking forward to sharing this progress with you.
For more information about the St Andrew’s Project visit the dedicated St Andrew’s Project webpage.
