CONSERVATION OF THE NORTH EXPLOSIVES STORE AT NENTHEAD
The current conservation work at Nenthead, which is funded by Natural England, includes the repair of the walls, the reinstatement of the roof, doors and interior walls of this building. The building has been excavated and recorded so that conservation work can take place. The work programme includes the following tasks.
1 WALLS
Dismantle and reconstruct walls as required. Existing stones to be numbered poor to removal. Reinstatement to follow the same pattern as before and repairs to the wall tops will use the fallen stones found on the site. Decaying timber inserts in the walls will be replaced. Lime mortar will be used.
Update 28 08 14 – wall removal started
Update 01 09 14 – wall removal completed, ready for the rebuild.
Update 16 09 14 – wall rebuilding started. See the separate posts.
2 ROOF
New joists and rafters to be installed. Roof replaced using stock of slates fixed by wooden pegs and other period style fittings.
3 INTERIOR WALLS, CEILING, FLOOR AND SHELVING
All to be rebuilt based on examples on site and other surviving explosives stores in the North Pennines.
4 DOORS
Two new doors to be constructed based on photos and surviving examples elsewhere.
PROGRAMME Work will take place on the following dates: 11, 12, 13,14,15 September. Further dates will be chosen as the work progresses.
UPDATE 4th September – possible postponement of start dates – check this website for the latest news.
THE ROLE OF SOCIETY MEMBERS The conservation plan envisages that the majority of the work will be completed by Society Members, with assistance from skilled masons and joiners employed by the main conservation contractors working on the Nenthead Mines site. We are now asking Members to volunteer to work on this building. No previous experience is required – appropriate training and advice will be provided by the professional team on site. You will be required to provide and wear sturdy boots. Gloves are recommended. Safety helmets will be available.
HOW TO VOLUNTEER
By email to admin@nentheadmines.com. Please state the days that you are available
By phone: phone Peter Jackson on 01642564100 or 07718385646.
MORE INFORMATION Please contact Peter Jackson
BUNKHOUSE Provided you work as a volunteer on site, you can stay in the Assay House bunkhouse, without charge. You will need to bring food, sleeping bag and a pillow case. Phone or email Sheila Barker to book nights in the bunkhouse. 01434381903, sheila.barker@cybermoor.org.uk
From: Peter Jackson, Chair, NMCS