Refurbishment Works to Robinson Arch, Auckland Castle

Client: The Auckland Project, 58 Kingsway, Bishop Auckland, Co Durham, DL14 7JF
Architect: Space Architecture Ltd
Value: £500,000

Project overview

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Robinson Arch dates back to the mid-18th century, with the clock bell dating to the 12th century. The works required extreme care to preserve this historic monument.

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Scope of work

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Over a 10-month programme, we repaired the bell room, addressing damage from weathering, wood-boring insects, damp and age. This included dismantling and rebuilding corners, installing a steel beam and fitting wall plates and centre posts.

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Other works included timber treatment, removal of asbestos-containing materials, temporary removal of the clock face, stripping lead from the roof, stonework repairs and repointing, internal decoration, electrical works, lightning protection and decoration of gates across the site.

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The 304kg bell was carefully dismantled, hoisted to ground level, stored and refurbished by specialists. Once the bell room was structurally sound, it was hoisted back and refitted with new timber and steel supports.

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End result

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All works were delivered to an excellent standard with strict health and safety procedures. Supported scaffolding and careful measures ensured no damage to the tower. The project was shortlisted for the Constructing Excellence North East Conservation & Regeneration Award.