The SPAB’s Old House Project site is a Grade II* ‘building at risk’ near Maidstone, Kent. St Andrews (former) chapel has stood empty for around 50 years. When the SPAB bought it in November 2018, it was hidden behind an overgrown garden; vandal damage had left the site vulnerable; and parts of the roof were leaking. In 2018 and early 2019 emergency work to the roof and windows was carried out and a security system installed.

2020 provided us with some unique challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In the early part of the year, prior to lockdowns, we were able to get lots of volunteers on site to help with the works. As the year progressed, we reduced the number of volunteers and craftspeople on site considerably, whilst adhering to government guidelines, and we were able to make some considerable progress in securing this medieval treasure before the winter.

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