Newstead Abbey, one of Nottinghamshire’s most iconic historic landmarks, could receive a much-needed lifeline in the form of a £249,828 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
This capital funding is earmarked for urgent restoration work on the Sussex Tower, a critical structure within the Abbey currently listed on the Heritage at Risk Register.
Newstead Abbey has long been celebrated for its historical and cultural significance, being the ancestral home of the famed poet Lord Byron. However, the Abbey’s Sussex Tower has suffered severe structural deterioration. Issues include a leaking, rusty water tank and poor-quality roofs that have led to internal water damage, posing significant health and safety risks.
The Heritage at Risk designation highlights the importance of immediate action to preserve the site. Without intervention, the Abbey faces escalating repair costs and further damage to its historic features.
If the grant is secured, the repair programme will span from April 2025 to March 2028, addressing critical structural issues. Key tasks include:
• Removing the deteriorated water tank, which spans the width of the Sussex Tower.
• Restoring the roof to its original design.
• Re-designing and installing effective rainwater goods.
• Repairing external masonry to ensure safety.
• Restoring internal ceilings damaged by water ingress.
• The Sussex Tower restoration will enable the reopening of affected rooms and safeguard the Abbey’s historic collections.
The project will be fully funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, requiring no cash match funding from the council. A professional team, including a conservation-accredited architect, structural engineer, quantity surveyor, and scaffolding designer, will lead the efforts. A main contractor will be appointed to execute the works.
Doing nothing is not an option. Delayed repairs would leave the Sussex Tower at greater risk, leading to even higher repair costs falling on the council. The proposed programme will mitigate these risks and secure the site for future generations.
The tendering process will commence once the grant is awarded, ensuring all contractors and professionals are in place to begin by April 2025. Completion is expected by March 2028, with key milestones along the way to ensure progress and quality.
Historical Importance of Newstead Abbey
Originally a monastic house founded in the late 12th century, Newstead Abbey is a treasure trove of history and architecture. The site draws thousands of visitors annually, showcasing the legacy of Lord Byron and the rich heritage of the region. Protecting the Sussex Tower is critical to maintaining its status as a premier cultural and tourist destination.
