Current building projects

With generous assistance from Arts Council England, the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Historic England we have been able to begin a comprehensive programme of repairs to The Folly, our Grade I listed building.

The Folly – Structural Repairs

In 2022, funding of £270,501 was allocated under the Arts Council England Museum Estates and Development (MEND) scheme – match funding was secured with assistance from the Sylvia Waddilove Foundation, North Craven Heritage Trust, the Harold & Alice Bridges Charity and through generous donations by many individuals to a public appeal.
Total Cost: £303,000

Architect inspecting the mortar test panel at The Folly, SettlePhase I (completed May 2022):
Consolidation of the masonry arch above the central staircase was carried out by R. N. Wooler Ltd., using Cintec anchors and helical crack stitch bars, followed by repointing.
Completed May 2022

Phase 2 (completed December 2023):
Repointing and glazing repairs to the rear and south elevations
Repointing and repairs to tower masonry
Repairs to roofs, roofing timbers, flashings and rainwater goods
Drainage repairs
Rebuilding of south boundary wall to garden

Phase 3 (completed April 2024):
Repairs to internal plasterwork on all three floors of the South range and on the main staircase
Redecoration

Tower roof repair

Overhaul of tower roof, leadwork and rainwater goods (completed September 2023)
Current Status: Funding of £10,584 provided by Historic Houses Foundation
Actual Cost: £36,506 (scaffolding funded via ACE MEND grant)

Garden Improvements

Redesign of pathways and planting to make better use of the space, with emphasis on safe access, sustainable methods and materials. New garden shed installed.
Current Status: Phase 2 in progress with support from the Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust; further funding required
Estimated Cost: £10,500

Completed projects

Find out more about our recent achievements.