Where better to learn about Repair and Maintenance of Traditional Buildings that the Grade II* listed Hopwood Hall near Manchester?
The Tywi Centre have taken their pioneering, accredited training on the road this week. Thanks to the Hamish Ogston Foundation, we have been privileged to deliver training to their heritage building skills apprentices alongside employees of Historic England, The National Trust, and Sheffield College among other organisations.
The Hamish Ogston Foundation’s Heritage Building Skills Programme helps ensure that the craft and trade skills needed to repair and maintain historic buildings are passed on to future generations.
Their initiatives not only increase the survival chances of the world’s irreplaceable historic buildings, but also provide young people, regardless of their socio-economic situation, with skills which ensure lifelong employment opportunities.
Buildings such as the magnificent Hopwood Hall are prime examples of why such specialist skills are so desperately needed. Dating back to around the 1420’s, the building fell into disrepair in the 1980’s. It is currently being restored to its former glory thanks to the work of Hopwood DePree, Historic England and Rochdale Council. Hopwood Hall is anticipated to reopen in 2026 as an arts and cultural events hub. To make this possible, it will require many skilled craftspeople.
Old buildings bear testimony to the rich tapestry of our history, culture, and craftsmanship. However, neglect and the passage of time can cause structural damage and deterioration, endangering their existence. The repair and maintenance Level 3 Award course offered by the Tywi Centre aims to address these challenges head-on, promoting the knowledge and skills required for conservationists to safeguard these structures.
The course covers a diverse range of topics, ensuring participants receive comprehensive training in repair and maintenance methodologies. From understanding historical construction techniques to sustainable conservation practices, attendees gain valuable insights into the art of restoration. Demonstrations and real-life case studies further enrich the learning experience.
By empowering individuals with the skills and knowledge to restore and maintain these structures, we ensure that their beauty and significance endure for generations to come. Through this collective effort, we can celebrate our past while embracing a sustainable future rooted in our cultural heritage.
