A 12-week project to restore six walls around the historic Christchurch Priory is expected to be completed by the end of next month.

BCP Council leases the land on which the walls sit and has a responsibility for their maintenance around the Priory, quay and adjacent to the mill stream.

It is working with architects Columba Cook, based in Christchurch, and the council’s Senior Conservation Officer to ensure all works are carried out within ancient monument guidelines .

The tender to carry out essential work to repair, rebuild, stabilise and refurbish the walls was awarded to Greendale Construction Limited’s Small Works Division.

The restoration work includes:

• Removing vegetation and tree growth within the walls.
• Dismantling some of the walls for a careful rebuild using like for like materials.
• Replacing degraded and weather worn bricks and replacing them with new matching clay bricks.
• Shoring and underpinning the walls if required.

Rob Hooker, Director, Greendale Construction Limited, pictured left, said:  “We are very pleased to be the main contractor on this wonderful historic project in a beautiful location.

“The works will save these walls for future generations to enjoy and we look forward to working with the team to achieve a successful hand over at the end of October.”

Councillor Mark Howell, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Culture and Economy, BCP Council, added: “Under the terms of the lease for Christchurch Priory’s car park we have a responsibility to maintain the walls around the Priory and the quay.

“This needs to be done with considerable care and attention to detail on this historic and much-loved landmark in the town.

“This essential work will help to preserve the Priory and the many events that are held within its grounds (when they start up again) for the enjoyment of all, for generations to come.”

Christchurch Priory dates back to 1094 and was first constructed as a Norman church on the site of the old Saxon Priory.