Rebuilding of a stone wall

Client: Oxford City Council

Project: Demolition of dangerous wall and construction of new wall

Department: Property Services

Date of completion: March 2019

Budget: £25k

Client

Oxford City Council’s Property Services Team is responsible for major repairs and improvements to the Council’s properties and estates including the monitoring of health and safety works to all properties.

Requirement

The old stone wall that formed the perimeter wall at the rear of two properties and also the public access lane had an extensive lean and posed a serious danger to the public.  Although the wall did not have a listed status it was deemed to be of ‘historical interest’ and our primary goal was to reinstate the structure sensitively, in compliance with advice from the Conservation Officer, whilst also listening to the wishes of local residents.

Solution

ODS worked closely with a Structural Engineer, Archaeologist, Conservation Officer and the Client to plan the works required to reinstate this wall. The team went to great lengths to ensure that local residents were informed at all stages of the project and that their concerns were considered throughout. To ensure the wall was reconstructed to replicate the original, a stonemason was sub-contracted to carry out the works and existing material re-used throughout.

Results

The wall was demolished and restored with existing material to maintain its historical value within a seven week timeframe and on budget.

"Although not a ‘listed’ wall, the detailed photographic record of the restoration and outstanding level of communication, not only engaged local residents, but also reawakened local interest in the history of Cowley.

I would have no hesitation at all in recommending Direct Services for future restoration and conservation work." Councillor David Henwood