AABC Newsletter April 2025

Welcome

In this issue, we take a closer look at the AABC Civic Trust Award Winners and the new Historic England Grants available. If you have anything you would like to see in a future newsletter, please let us know.

AABC Civic Trust Award Winners

Awards Winners

Projects which demonstrate the highest standards of historic building conservation and make an outstanding contribution to the quality and appearance of the built environment.

Becket's Chapel, South Norfolk,
The Architect Studio

Becket's Chapel languished for years due to lack of funds for its maintenance. Despite numerous efforts to identify sustainable uses, this beautiful grade I listed building was added to the Heritage at Risk Register in 2018. Following a phased repair and revitalisation project, the Chapel now serves as a cornerstone of Wymondham's identity, enhancing the town's cultural and historical landscape.

Judges’ Comments: "In preserving Becket’s Chapel, this initiative showcases how conservation can harmonise tradition and modernity, ensuring that historic buildings continue to enrich the community for generations to come."

Elizabeth Tower, Westminster,
Purcell

The comprehensive refurbishment of the Elizabeth Tower, colloquially known as Big Ben, exemplifies a masterful application of historic building conservation techniques. Visitors frequently praise the immersive experience, from climbing the 334 steps to witnessing the belfry's grandeur. Additionally, the project serves as a valuable educational resource, showcasing best practices in conservation and inspiring similar endeavours worldwide.

Judges’ Comments: “The Elizabeth Tower refurbishment is a landmark achievement in historic conservation. By harmonizing historical fidelity, innovative technology, and community engagement, it preserves a vital symbol of British democracy for future generations while enriching the cultural fabric of society.”

Leighton Buzzard Market Cross, Bedford,
Rena Pitsilli-Graham Architect

The conservation of the Leighton Buzzard Market Cross monument demonstrates a masterclass in historic building preservation, blending meticulous research, innovative techniques, and community engagement to safeguard this 15th-century structure for future generations.

Judges’ Comments: “The project has not only preserved a significant historical landmark but also reinforced its cultural and aesthetic value to Leighton Buzzard’s community. It stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful conservation to connect people with their heritage while ensuring the integrity of historic structures.”

Westminster Hall Conservation Project, Westminster
Donald Insall Associates

Westminster Hall exemplifies the pinnacle of historic building conservation, combining meticulous research, traditional craftsmanship, and innovative techniques to preserve a medieval architectural masterpiece for future generations. .

Judges’ Comments: “Westminster Hall’s restoration demonstrates the profound benefits of historic building conservation. By preserving the Hall’s architectural and cultural legacy, the project enriches the community’s connection to its history while providing an enduring, functional space for public and political life.”

Highly Commended Winners

Projects which demonstrate the highest standards of historic building conservation and make a significant contribution to the quality and appearance of the built environment.

Carlisle Castle Keep
Buttress Architects

The conservation of Carlisle Castle’s 900-year-old keep stands as a shining example of how modern techniques, historical fidelity, and community engagement can converge to preserve an iconic heritage site.

Judges’ Comments: “The project’s holistic philosophy - addressing both immediate repairs and long-term sustainability - ensures that Carlisle Castle Keep remains a resilient and inspiring monument."

Dartmoor National Park Historic Farm Building Repairs, West Devon
Jonathan Rhind Architects

With its thoughtful approach, integration of traditional techniques, and community-centred benefits, this initiative, jointly led by Historic England, Natural England, and various National Parks, has successfully safeguarded the cultural and architectural heritage of Dartmoor’s iconic agricultural buildings while maintaining their relevance in modern agricultural use.

Judges’ Comments: “This scheme demonstrates how collaborative efforts, traditional techniques, and community engagement can effectively preserve heritage while delivering tangible benefits to local economies and cultural landscapes.”

Divine Beauty Project, Birmingham
Nick Cox Architects

Birmingham Cathedral is a Grade I Listed building designed by Thomas Archer in 1709 and the Edward Burne-Jones designed stained glass windows constructed by Morris & Co. are its principal treasures.

Judges’ Comments: “The Divine Beauty Project successfully blends technical precision with artistic reverence.”

Saltdean Lido, Brighton and Hove,
R H Partnership Architects Limited

The conservation of the only Grade II* listed lido in the country stands as testament to the effectiveness of historic building conservation techniques and their profound benefits to the community and its users.

Judges’ Comments: “By carefully balancing authenticity with modern needs, this restoration safeguards an architectural gem while reinstating it as a vibrant community asset.”

Station Agents House, Manchester
Wiles & Maguire Ltd

The conservation of The Station Agents House, dating back to 1808, holds a unique place in Manchester’s history, having survived the sweeping Victorian redevelopment of the city.

Judges’ Comments: “The result is a space that not only honours Manchester’s rich railway heritage but also provides an engaging and memorable experience for visitors, reaffirming the importance of historic conservation in contemporary society.”

The Camellia House, Wentworth Woodhouse, Rotherham,
Donald Insall Associates

The restoration of The Camellia House at Wentworth Woodhouse represents a careful approach taken by conservation specialists, architects, and horticulturalists ensuring that the building’s historic significance was retained while also allowing it to serve a meaningful purpose for future generations.

Judges’ Comments: “A beautifully restored landmark that honours its past while serving as a vibrant space for contemporary use, providing an invaluable asset for education, tourism, and horticultural conservation.”

The Outer Gatehouse at Buckden Towers,
Robert Davies Architects Ltd

The conservation efforts on the Outer Gatehouse at Buckden Towers seamlessly integrate historical preservation with sustainable construction techniques.

Judges’ Comments: “Through rigorous research, careful material selection, and skilled craftsmanship, the project has restored a cherished landmark.”

For further details about the consultant teams and the photographer, please visit the Civic Trust Award Online Brochure using the link below.

Civic Trust Award Winners

Civic Trust Awards 2026

The Civic Trust Awards for 2026 open on 2nd June 2025 and closes 6pm on 18th July 2025.

All members of the AABC register now receive a £100 discount on all AABC Civic Trust Conservation Award entries.

Looking forward to seeing all the interesting project entries, please remember projects of any scale are all welcome.

To apply for 2026

Historic England Capital Fund Grants

Historic England has launched it's £15m Heritage at Risk Capital grant scheme.

For more information on the scheme and to request an Expression of Interest and guidance on how to apply please click here.

Each Regional Team will start looking at the applications at the start of May, so if you have a project which is ready please let them know about the potential funding available.

AABC Conference

AABC Conference 2025

We're excited to announce that the AABC Conference 2025 will take place on 9 October 2025 at the stunning Bradford Cathedral.

Join us for a day of insightful talks, engaging discussions, and networking with fellow conservation professionals - all in the inspiring setting of one of the UK's most historic cathedrals.

Bradford Cathedral
9 October 2025

More details coming soon - watch this space!

Newly Accredited Architects

Welcome to the following new members who have recently gained AABC Conservation Accredited status.

Elisa Ascari

Helen Beecroft

John Robson

Katie McEvoy

Peter Slinger

Toshiya Kogawa

41 Bengal St Manchester M4 6AF

administrator@aabc-register.co.uk

0161 832 0666