Site Visit: Laughton Place Conservation Works

Please note: this event is for over 18’s only.

Join the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) for a site visit to Laughton Place, a striking Tudor tower with a rich history and significant heritage value, currently undergoing a programme of conservation and repair works.

The tower we see today was built in 1534 by Sir William Pelham and is all that remains of a house that stood on the site from the 13th century until the 1950s, having undergone numerous alterations over the centuries. The building bears the Pelham Buckle, the family emblem said to commemorate military prowess at the Battle of Poitiers in 1356. Following centuries of occupation, the house was largely demolished in the 1950s, leaving the tower standing in isolation until the Landmark Trust acquired and restored it in the late 1970s. Today, Laughton Place is a Grade II* listed building set within a Scheduled Monument.

Project summary:

The current conservation project includes extensive roof and wall repairs, deep repointing, and the introduction of hood mouldings over windows. Works also involve replacing the roof access door, adding chimney pots, installing a mortar fillet and lead flashing to the corbel table, carrying out terracotta and masonry repairs, and refurbishing the existing windows. Internally, the project features the application of lime plaster, structural repairs to the staircase, the conversion of a window to a fire exit door, and internal reordering and redecoration. Masonry repairs to the moat bridge complete the programme.

The tour will be led by the project Architect (Andy Burrell Architecture), the Principal Contractors (Alex Ritchie - Valley Builders Ltd), and the Masonry Specialists (Andrew Burnett - Paye Stonework & Restoration). This visit offers a unique opportunity to explore the practical and technical challenges of historic building conservation, including the use of traditional materials and techniques, as well as the integration of modern safety and functional requirements within a heritage context.

PPE requirements: Hard hats, safety boots and hi-vis vests are required for this visit. Some spare hats and hi-vis will be available on the day.

Members: gain 2 CIOB CPD points when you reflect on the ethical aspects of your learning from this activity.

The CIOB member ticket is free, but with a suggested donation of £5 to CIOB Assist. Our mission is simple: helping CIOB members and their families when life gets tough. Your help makes our CIOB community stronger. Thank you for supporting CIOB Assist.
The non-member ticket cost is £25.

Georgie Hawkes
Member Services & Events Coordinator - Wessex & Channel Islands Hub
[email protected]

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher CIOB Wessex & Channel Islands