Sandon Hall Water and Bell Tower

The project at Sandon Hall focused on the restoration of its historic stone bell tower, situated within the expansive Sandon Hall Estate in Staffordshire. As a Grade II* listed building with significant cultural and historical value, the bell tower had deteriorated and required careful dismantling, repair of stonework, and reinstatement to its original grandeur. Sandon Hall, a 19th-century country mansion and the seat of the Earl of Harrowby, is renowned for hosting weddings, receptions, and various events throughout the year. Preserving the aesthetic and operational integrity of the estate during restoration was paramount, particularly to ensure that ongoing events and the estate's income were not disrupted. Challenges included navigating strict Listed Building consent requirements and coordinating construction activities around the wedding season to minimize impact on estate operations. Accessibility for visitors and maintaining inclusive design principles were also crucial considerations throughout the planning stages.

To mitigate visual disruption, initial plans included disguising scaffolding with an image of the bell tower, although this approach was not ultimately implemented. The project's phased approach and careful scheduling aimed to balance restoration needs with the estate's ongoing activities and revenue streams. As of February 2024, the project timeline was still under review, with plans to commence renovations later in the year. The ongoing discussions and re-tendering process underscore the estate's commitment to ensuring minimal disruption while preserving Sandon Hall's architectural heritage for future generations. In summary, the Sandon Hall bell tower restoration project exemplifies a meticulous approach to heritage conservation within a vibrant estate setting. By balancing restoration imperatives with operational considerations, the project aims to safeguard the hall's legacy as a cultural landmark and economic asset in Staffordshire.