Milton Keynes-based architectural practice, GSSArchitecture, are delighted to have finished the latest phase of restoration and refurbishment works at the historic Bradwell Abbey site.
Bradwell Abbey, located in Alston Drive, is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and urban studies site which dates back to the 12th century and, as a result of funding from Historic England in 2018 and further funding from the owner, Milton Keynes Council and MK City Discovery Centre, has undergone extensive repairs over the last couple of years.
Appointed as Conservation Architects on the scheme, GSS have led the site-wide refurbishment which has included structural repairs to the Grade I listed chapel and Grade II listed farmhouse which completed in 2021. Most recently the internal and external fabric repairs to the farmhouse were completed, allowing the team to progress onto the final stage of the works.
Due to the nature of the works, and with Bradwell Abbey being a Scheduled Ancient Monument, GSS Partner and Specialist Heritage Team Lead, William Assheton, has worked collaboratively with the project team, Historic England, archaeologists and ecologists to ensure the repairs are completed sympathetically whilst utilising methods and materials used at the time of original construction.
Throughout the project, the team have made some interesting discoveries, including a medieval stone carving which was uncovered within the west gable of the farmhouse and original medieval wall paintings that were found within the chapel.
Chris Chapman, Parter and Milton Keynes Studio lead at GSSArchitecture, said of the works:
“It has been a fascinating project to work on and we are delighted that the site has recently been removed from the Heritage At Risk Register! It is pivotal that these nationally important buildings are maintained and restored, allowing future generations to learn more about the county’s rich heritage.”
In addition to the works at Bradwell Abbey, the Milton Keynes Studio of GSS are working on a number of other historical schemes including alterations to the Grade II listed Milton Keynes Shopping Centre, and further afield, at St Catharine’s College, located in the heart of the Central Cambridge Conservation Area, where phased internal refurbishment and reconfiguration is under way.
To keep up to date with the latest project updates and news stories from GSSArchitecture, or to find out more about their Specialist Heritage and Conservation Team and the services they offer, click here.
