|
|
Leicester Cathedral Leicester Civic Society Award 2006 Work started on a major restoration of the tower and spire in November 2004 and was completed in March 2006. Although last scaffolded less than 30 years ago, the work involved 15% stone replacement to the spire. This is a high proportion of the masonry. However, the work was essential in order to prevent an acceleration of damage. Earlier in 2004 the cathedral had completed the restoration of the inside of the tower and the spire. It looks utterly splendid and it's a great shame that such an amazing space (it's huge and entirely unobstructed) cannot for safety reasons be seen by the public. The cathedral dates back to the 12th century, but most of the work seen today is by Raphael Brandon, carried out in the second half of the 19th century. Brandon's work is generally regarded as being dignified and restrained, and of very high quality. The addition of crucifix-finials on the lucarnes completes the realisation of his design. The Cathedral Chapter now intend to consider a liturgical and architectural re-ordering of the building. |
| Credits for the restoration and completion of the tower and spire Project Architect John Radice, MA(Cantab) Dipl Arch RIBA Project Engineer Adrienne Anderson BEng CEng MICE MIStructE Quantity surveyor Rod Adam MRICS MAPM, Monk Dunstone Associates Consulting Archaeologist David Parsons, BA PhD FSA English Heritage Ian Harper DiplArch RIBA RIAS, Cathedrals Team Main contractor Linford Group Ltd Leicester Civic Society Award 2006
| |
