MASTER’S HOUSE SHORTLISTED FOR TWO RICS AWARDS
The historic restoration project has been nominated in both the Building Conservation and Community Engagement categories following its completion in 2015.
“We are absolutely delighted that the project has received recognition for both the high standard of restoration, but also the huge effort made by the project team in regards to working with the local community,” said Bill Cave, Small Works Director at building contractor Speller Metcalfe.
“As a contractor based in Malvern, and with many of our team hailing from Ledbury, this one-of-a-kind project has been a truly personal accomplishment.”
In a £3.2m framework scheme with Herefordshire Council, Speller Metcalfe undertook a highly detailed restoration of the Grade II* listed building, transforming it into a library, council offices and the John Masefield archive.
Based in central Ledbury, the Master’s House has truly been at the heart of the community, with many of the general public, residents and local schools becoming involved with the site and the team.
“Over the course of the project we’ve had over 4000 visitors coming through the doors which is remarkable in itself. Many of these have been students from both the local secondary and primary schools taking part in our interactive building workshops,” continued Bill.
“The Master’s House stands as a reminder of Ledbury’s past and heritage over the last 500 years, and we hope following such a mindful restoration it will continue to stand for another 500.”
Chair of the RICS Awards 2016, West Midlands judging panel, Richard Moxon, Partner at Pennycuick Co, said: “This year there have been some great large scale projects across the region. Our entrants this year really highlight the West Midland’s move towards a devolved region, highlighting the fantastic work our region is doing in all categories.”
The 2016 RICS Awards 2016, West Midlands which will be held on Friday 20 May at Aston Villa Football Club in Birmingham, with regional winners going on to the national awards later this year.