What's the Plan?

Planning the conservation work has taken years of research, investigation, and survey by a team of specialists assembled by the SRCT. 

Using their expertise and the wealth of detailed information gathered during the planning process, the project team is undertaking work on the East Church following best conservation practice. 

Traditional materials and techniques are being used, and the project is also providing an opportunity for apprentices to gain valuable skills and experience.

These are just some of the tasks that are being undertaken during conservation work on the church:

• The cement harling and gypsum plaster has beentaken off and will be replaced by traditional lime harl that can both absorb water and allow moisture to evaporate - letting the building ‘breathe’. You can take a look at the Scottish Lime Centre website for more information on this process.
• Drainage ditches around the church have been redone to take more water away from the church.
• All the roof slates will be removed and any damaged timber beneath will be either repaired or replaced. A breathable underlayer will be used and slates will be replaced using copper nails.
• The delicate astragals (fine wooden framing to each window pane) are being repaired and, only if necessary, replaced.

During the conservation work apprentices will work alongside skilled craftsmen learning traditional skills of masonry and lime harling.

The East Church conservation team

LDN Architects, Forres -  Architect
Laing Traditional Masonry Ltd - Main Contractor
Torrance Partnership -  Quantity Surveyor
Mott MacDonald -   Structural Engineer
Ridout Associates  - Environmental Monitoring
Highland Archaeology Services Ltd - Archaeologist
Andrew PK Wright  - Conservation Adviser
Dr David Alston    - Historical research
 

What's happening now?

Check out reports from the worksite www.eastchurchcromarty.co.uk/the-worksite.asp to find out the latest developments at the Church.