Stonyhurst College Old Mill retreat

The Old Mill dates from 1840 and has high significance for historic and evidential values and is now a high-spec retreat providing learning resources and accommodation.

The restoration of the building’s façade and the introduction of a new state-of-the-art interior has helped to restore the building’s significance in the 21st century.

External works involved façade retention, extensive stone repairs to all elevations, demolition of an existing storage facility, installation of a two-storey structural steel frame on piled foundations with in-situ concrete floor slabs and new slate pitched roofs.

A specialist mechanical and electrical services installation was included in the Old Mill, and surrounding buildings, without disrupting the fabric of the buildings. Electrical works consisted of installation of a new main switchboard, lighting, emergency lighting, power, fire alarm system, data cabinet and cabling, CCTV and security / door access.

Additionally, low level lighting was installed, allowing local wildlife to thrive in this habitat. External works also included a new car park, access road and landscaping.

This 15-month contract was successfully completed on time and within the client’s budget. It was essential that the works remained in keeping with the existing fabric of the building, with the new materials sympathetically reflecting the age of the building.

Warden’s site management team effectively managed and coordinated numerous specialist conservation contractors including heritage stonework, masonry works and stone stabilisation. To ensure that the programme, and budget, were successfully met, procurement lead times for specialist services and materials, were identified as early as possible, specifically, the natural stone copings and heritage windows.