Date: 11/07/2008
High Peak Borough Council and residents are celebrating the re-opening of the Pavilion Gardens Conservatory.
Work to repair the Grade II Listed Conservatory has been completed just in time for the launch of the 2008 Buxton Festival.
The Conservatory, constructed by Edward Milner in 1870 had deteriorated over the years. The structural repairs will prevent further deterioration and ensure the building is safe for public enjoyment.
Great effort has gone into retaining as many original features as possible, such as ornate cast iron spandrels, which have been carefully restored, or where that was not possible, have been copied and recast.
When the restoration work started earlier this year further concealed damage was discovered which has also been carefully repaired. Externally, discreet alterations have been made to strengthen the structure, including new piled foundations to give the building additional vertical support.
Tony Kemp, Executive Councillor for Regeneration, said: "I am delighted that the work has been completed on schedule so that the public can once again access the main Pavilion complex, through this much loved feature of the town."
He added: "The re-opening of the Conservatory will be a major milestone in the continuous improvement of Pavilion Gardens. The Council has earmarked investment for improved catering and retail facilities that should be completed in early 2009. We are also working hard to secure further funding to invest in the repair and re-use of the Paxton Suite."
The Conservatory will be open daily from 9.30 to 5pm.
Photo (above): The Mayor of High Peak, Councillor Robin Baldry, cuts the ribbon at 3.30pm on Thursday, July 10, to re-open the Conservatory. He was accompanied by the Mayoress, Councillor Linda Baldry (second left), Councillor Tony Kemp (right) and Councillor John Haken (behind). Looking on were contract representatives, including Ian Robinson, from Ian Martin Building Company (the main contractor); Adrian Peck from Atkinson Peck Structural Engineers; Bill Jennings from JDA Architects; and Simon Dobbie from Dorothea Restorations (who did the iron work).The Buxton Pavilion and Gardens, which cost £12,000 to complete, were originally opened on September 30, 1871, by the Duke of Devonshire, Lord George Cavendish, MP, who gave the land for this. Further historic information (external website**).
More views of the Conservatory, right and below...
