Lambert Walker appointed for Bramall Hall restoration
STOCKPORT Council has welcomed the appointment of conservation specialists Lambert Walker to undertake the restoration of historic Bramall Hall.
This follows a successful grant of £1.6 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).
Lambert Walker are a North West based company with expertise in the conservation and restoration of historic buildings, cathedrals, churches and stately homes throughout the UK.
Its founders, John Lambert and Adrian Walker met as apprentices more than 20 years ago while working on Blackburn Cathedral as historical painter and stonemason respectively.
Lambert Walker ‘s portfolio includes Manchester Cathedral, Ordsall Hall Museum, Salford and Capesthorne Hall, Macclesfield.
Stockport Council’s executive member for economic development and regeneration Cllr Patrick McAuley, said: “This is a fantastic project and we are much looking forward to working with Lambert Walker.
“This complements the importance of Bramall Hall as a visitor destination whilst giving local people an iconic attraction they can be proud of.”
The HLF grant, plus additional grants, will enable this £2 million transformation project to preserve Bramall Hall’s unique heritage for future generations.
The work by Lambert Walker will be undertaken inside Bramall Hall itself and also in the Stable Block and will include: Restoration of the decorative glass windows; provision of level access on the ground floor; opening up of tw new themed rooms and the repair of the Victorian boiler house.
Conversion of the stable block to provide better facilities will include: Modern toilets, a new café, shop and visitor area; a new education suite to provide learning space for sachool groups and landscape improvements to the walled garden.
Contracts Director of Lambert Walker, Adrian Walker, added: “Many years ago I worked as a stonemason for a building company in Marple.
“My former boss loved Bramall Hall and was a regular visitor. I recall him saying that if I worked hard that one day I might be lucky enough to work on Bramall Hall.
“Now, I am and Lambert walker is delighted to be involved in this project.”
Earlier this year, Stockport Council appointed specialist contractors Hirst Conservation to repair and restore the ornate plaster ceiling in the Withdrawing Room. This work is now nearing completion.
Physical building works will begin on site in April. Bramall Hall will re-open in spring 2016.
