ºù«Ӱҵ

Overview

The work to preserve the fabric of the building, which has included an entirely new roof and a rebuild of half the structure using the original bricks, is now complete. 

In December 2021 we had to remove a building to the rear of the site due to structural damage from severe adverse weather - and so this project was to preserve the fabric of this building - the 'House' - to ensure this iconic piece of ºù«Ӱҵ's cultural heritage would remain for many years to come. 

We've also added specialist bird boxes on the far gable end to provide safe nesting habitats for endangered Swifts, showing our support to .

We're really pleased with the completed works which meet the overall planning aim summarised in the Conclusion section of the  from the  (submitted February 2022) which stated:

"The overall aim of this proposed work is to stabilise the condition of the building and create a safe and stable site that can then be developed further for reuse at a future stage."

Now that we've been successful in the preservation we are considering the future use of the building, and further details will be announced in due course. It is envisaged that a further application will be required for the further development of the site.  

 

Details of the works carried out

• Signage - the signs were removed during the construction work.  The front sign was replaced with a replica as experts stated it wasn't possible to restore the existing sign.  The newer sign from the end of the building was reinstalled after the preservation works were completed.
• Brickwork - a significant amount of the brickwork was taken down and rebuilt.  As many existing bricks were re-used as possible. Damaged and defective bricks were removed and replaced with reclaimed bricks saved from taking down the rear building at the end of 2021/start of 2022. The whole building was repointed.
• Windows - new timber windows were installed to match the existing style and size and to meet new building regulations.  The new windows were approved by the ºù«Ӱҵ City Council Heritage Officer.  The lintels and sills were retained wherever possible and made good within the elevations that were rebuilt.
• Front Door - a new timber door and surround was installed to match the existing style and size.
• Roof - new slate roof tiles replaced the existing ones.  The old tiles were used for a charity project - with all profits going to support students seeking sanctuary in the UK, including those from Ukraine.

Access the full proposed plans diagram - although please note the work carried out was slightly different in some areas when compared to this initial proposal.

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News

April 2022 - Planning approved

ºù«Ӱҵ City Council have approved the planning application for "internal/external alterations including replacement of windows/doors and retention of 3 facades".  More detailed information on the works to be undertaken have been included in the project overview above.

February 2022 - Submitted planning application

A planning application was submitted to ºù«Ӱҵ City Council to carry out works at the site in order to preserve the 'Henderson's House' building.  The proposed refurbishment and rebuilding of the existing building will result in a secure and watertight building. 

Although the future use is not fully determined at this time, it has been indicated that the development will most likely be a social or leisure space in the form of a café or bar facility, and so a change of use has been included in the application. We envisage that a further application will be required for the further development of the site. 

December 2021 - Building at rear of site having to be removed

Following the recent adverse weather, a building to the rear of the former Henderson’s Relish factory site has suffered structural damage and needs to be taken down immediately.  Further information can be found in this news story.

July 2021 - Maintenance works

Whilst plans for the Hendersons' development are under review, we have been working to protect the building with a view to bring it back into use. Following a recent survey, we are erecting internal scaffolding and some external hoardings in preparation to undertake works to the structure, the full extent of which are to be confirmed. These maintenance works will ensure that the distinctive building maintains its character, while safeguarding its future use and ensuring it is in good shape prior to future development.

May 2021 - Roof and chimney repairs

We are beginning repair work on the building's roof and gable chimney stacks.

January 2021 - Structural inspection

We will shortly be undertaking some work to repair and maintain the building. A roof inspection and various surveys will be conducted to address any issues to the roof and structure. The building is suffering from dry rot so this will be treated as part of the full programme of repairs.