Work to conserve Boston’s historic Shodfriars Hall is set to go ahead, preserving the important Grade II* listed building for future generations.
The hall, part of Boston’s townscape since the fifteenth century, is currently on the Heritage At Risk Register. Now, its future is set to be secured after new owners Scorer Hawkins Architects have committed to carrying out the essential work that will conserve the building.
The careful and sensitive refurbishment is being funded by the Towns Fund programme of investment in the town, overseen by Boston Town Board. The project is being delivered by new owners Scorer Hawkins Architects, who specialise in the conservation of historic buildings.
The structural repairs and refurbishment to preserve the building will include improvements to the roof and the timber frame structure, refurbishment of windows, and external decoration.
In addition, the hall’s historic features will be restored, and there will be repairs and repointing to the brickwork.
A grant funding agreement means that the refurbishment can now move forward, breathing new life into one of Boston’s best-known buildings.
Jo Brigham, Chair of Boston Town Deal Board said: “Shodfriars Hall is one of Boston’s most historic buildings, and has been part of the street scene here for hundreds of years.
“We know how important the hall is to our local heritage and we want to secure its future and ensure that it is preserved for our town.
“The refurbishment of this building will have a significantly positive impact by protecting a key heritage asset and local landmark, adding to the town centre’s appeal, and providing space for different commercial and community uses .
“It is our ambition that the conservation of the hall will support more opportunities for local people and visitors to use the hall for years to come, and Shodfriars Hall will continue to be a much-loved part of the Boston townscape.”
Through the investment and the delivery of the refurbishment, it is expected that new employment opportunities will be created, including during the construction phase. In addition, further commercial floor space to sustain businesses will also be an outcome of the project.
Chris Bowen, Director, Scorer Hawkins Architects said: “The purchase and conservation of Shodfriars Hall is part of our ongoing and long-term commitment to the Town.
“The work we do is about caring for the places that we love and treasure and this is an opportunity for us to invest in the town and the business within it to continue to deliver heritage-led regeneration.”
Councillor Anne Dorrian, Leader, Boston Borough Council said: “Shodfriars Hall holds a special place in the hearts of many Boston residents and is an important part of our town’s rich history. All that being said, I also know that many residents have rarely had the chance to actually go inside the building.
“I’m delighted to see this much-needed conservation work moving forward, as this will safeguard one of our most iconic buildings for future generations and more importantly, it will allow the current residents of Boston regular opportunities to tour the facility. Through the support of the Towns Fund and the commitment of partners like Scorer Hawkins, we are not only preserving our heritage but also creating new opportunities for our community and businesses.
“This project is a shining example of how investment in our historic assets can breathe new life into our town centre.”
