The Vinery, Greenway, Kingswear, Devon

Region: South West

Summary: Although not individually listed, the Vinery lies within the curtilage of the Grade II* listed Greenway House and forms part of a Grade II Registered Park and Garden.

Description: It is likely to have been built soon after 1839 and The National Trust planned to repair and return it to traditional horticultural use.
Issue: The glasshouse was in a fragile condition. It had several phases of repair, but key areas of original fabric remained.
Strategy: A conservation statement accompanied the listed building application.  This outlined the development of the structure, identified historical repairs and alterations and put forward a conservation strategy together with details of the proposed works. Information was given on how the glazing was to be renewed, the redecoration of the woodwork based on historical paint analysis and the conservation of the original cast iron stoves.  The statement concluded with an impact assessment that considered each element of the works and its potential impact on the significance of the glasshouse.  The conservation statement was shaped and informed by an archaeological evaluation and historic building record.  This was updated and revised as part of the repair programme, so that a full record was made of the structure.
Outcome: Having obtained listed building consent all works were undertaken by experienced National Trust craftsman.

Keywords: REPAIR, RECONSTRUCTION & RESTORATION

What's New?

  • Britain was the world’s first industrial nation and has a wealth of industrial heritage but many industrial sites have been lost or are at risk due to functional redundancy. English Heritage's survey has shown that the percentage of listed industrial buildings at risk is three times greater than the national average for listed buildings at risk.
  • The value of a well managed, protected and appreciated historic environment to both our quality of life and to the economy is well established. Heritage tourism contributes £20.6 billion to GDP a year whilst research shows that 93% of people think that in improving their local place it is important to save heritage assets.