Durham based listed building specialist reports business boom

The in-house building surveying team of a Durham-based architect and surveyors is eyeing an extensive pipeline of work thanks to its specialisms in listed buildings.

Howarth Litchfield’s team is undertaking several projects on its home patch, including conservation and restoration works in the Grade 1 listed Durham Castle, also home to one of Durham Castle’s most important spaces, the acclaimed Grade 1 listed Norman Chapel, dating back to 1080, is Durham’s oldest building.

Here, Howarth Litchfield is advising on stonework conservation and repair works. The team is also working on the installation of a passive ventilation system to promote air movement within the chapel.

At the Grade II listed Principal’s House on Palace Green in Durham, located directly adjacent to the Castle Keep, Howarth Litchfield is also undertaking identified conservation and restoration works.

At the same time work is well advanced to improve acoustics in the Grade II listed Divinity House, forming part of the Music Department of Durham University, where Howarth Litchfield has been advising on the necessary refurbishment works to improve the performance teaching spaces.

Andrew Wilson, head of the surveying team said: “The current roster of projects is keeping the building surveying team extremely busy, with a noticeable influx now that the restrictions of the pandemic are easing.

“But we have also received several new commissions over the last few months across the broader sectors of commercial, medical, veterinary, industrial, education and court work, demonstrating the increasingly important role played by this type of work within our wider service portfolio.

“In the case of the Norman Chapel, an incredibly interesting project and one in which I am delighted to be involved, there is a real push now to get the necessary protective measures in place before next winter, so we should be on site throughout the summer period.”

Recently completed projects include the extensive refurbishment of Shildon Locomotion Museum in County Durham, the refurbishment and construction of new accommodation at Durham School and the Choristers School.