Project / Conservation

St Helen's Church

Repairing a remote island church

The Church of St Helen’s is located on Lundy Island. The church’s exposure to the island’s inclement weather at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean had resulted in substantial degradation of the building structure.

Mann Williams was engaged to assist with the consolidation and repair of the structural elements of the church. Its remote location also meant a degree of reordering was required to allow regular and flexible use of the building, while maintaining it as the religious and spiritual centre for Lundy.

The project was made possible through a range of generous donations, including from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Project Lead
Photo of Jeff Stott
Jeff Stott
Project Team
  • Location Lundy Island
  • Client St Helen's Church
  • Completion 2018
  • Value £1m
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Repairs throughout

We provided detailing of stitching repairs to fractures within the tower and church walls, as well as structural timber repairs to decayed roof elements.

A flexible refuge

Structural input was also provided for re-ordering works, including conversion of the vestry to provide accommodation for students engaged in study on the island. The flexibility of the re-ordered church now also provides a centre for exhibitions and lectures, as well as shelter and refuge for visitors during inclement weather.

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