Although 2021 was a relatively quiet year for the Old House Project, we managed to complete the roof repair work and the complicated new site entrance. Throughout the year we held onsite courses and workshops, and also ran our summer working party. We also carried out a great deal of investigative work into the archaeology of the site.

We also continued our exciting research – we used our field kiln to burn grey chalk and Kentish ragstone to produce our own mortar as and when it was needed. We used waste products from a local quarry.

We secured listed building consent and planning permission for future work, with the help of our architects, Malcolm Fryer Architects. Securing planning permission was vital to the building’s future. Since the building has been disused for over 50 years Maidstone Council took the view that it had lost its right to be a dwelling so we had to seek permission to reoccupy the site, as if the medieval building were an entirely new house. With planning permission gained we look forward to a busy year in 2022.

With special thanks to the Architectural Heritage Fund, the Pilgrim Trust, Historic England and everyone who ensured the roof was repaired by sponsoring a tile. More information on the project: www.spab.org.uk/old-house-project.