Saving Cornwall’s Heritage
Every job is special but sometimes we are privileged to be asked to undertake a project which contributes to the saving of a piece of Cornish heritage. That was certainly the case when we were asked to undertake some guttering work on Trenance Cottages.
Built in the 1700/1800s Trenance Cottages were lived in until the 1960s when they were transformed into a museum showcasing Newquay’s past. Sadly the buildings had become somewhat derelict over the years but thanks to the work of dedicated Newquay enthusiasts the Heritage Lottery Fund awarded a grant for their restoration. In awarding the grant the Heritage Lottery Fund Trustees said:
“Our committee members were very keen on this project from the start and happy to support it. The vision set out by the trustees was truly inspired and will provide for Newquay an important set of community facilities and a guaranteed future as an education resource and link with the town’s past. This rare set of pre-railway buildings fully deserved to be saved for the use and enjoyment of all”.
Working alongside architect Neil Wall from Studio West Architects and builder Brannan & Sons of Newquay, Pellow Flat Roofing was asked to install a gutter with parapet wall to help to manage water runoff, thereby helping to preserve the fabric of the building. This task involved installing a large single ply gutter with parapet wall detail all in Cefil RVF 1.5mm fully adhered single ply. This system was chosen for its 20 year lifespan and suitability for the Cornish weather; having good UV radiation protection as well as durability.
Cefil is particularly appropriate for use within a public building as it has passed some of the most stringent European fire tests including BS476: part 3. This means that Cefil membranes are unrestricted under current building regulations. Cefil membranes are also produced in accordance with ISO14001 environmental management guidelines and can be recycled at the end of their useful life; resulting in a minimum burden on the environment.
The newly restored building will not only continue to act as a showcase for Newquay’s heritage, but also provide a meeting space for local groups. A Victorian-style tea room and local shop will add to the attraction of Trenance Cottages as a community and visitor centre. More information about the cottages can be found on their website.
