Phase II restoration work commences at Torre Abbey Historic House - Torre Abbey

Phase II restoration work commences at Torre Abbey Historic House

Restoration work has commenced on the £4.7m phase II restoration of Torre Abbey Historic House, following a £2.8m grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund for this Torbay Council owned and operated visitor attraction.

Following the successful delivery of phase I, Torbay Development Agency has been commissioned to oversee the next phase which is to restore the south range elements and improve the interpretation.

The project also includes the creation of new learning spaces, including a new educational activity zone to be built in the south-east wing, transforming opportunities for students of all ages to get involved and explore the history of the site.

As part of the scheme, the Abbey's top floor will become a dramatic and dynamic gallery based around the 800 year history of Torre Abbey. State of the art displays and viewing stations overlooking the stunning marine vista ofTorBaywill show how the building evolved against the history of the local area.

Mayor, Gordon Oliver, said: “I am delighted that the second phase of Torre Abbey has commenced. This next stage will bring this beautiful building to life with state of the art technology depicting local history through the ages.

“Since its foundation in 1196, Torre Abbey has witnessed, survived and even played a role in some epic moments of history. It is one of the best buildings in the country to tell the story of 800 years of Catholicism between 1196 and 1930.

“The restoration will tell these stories but also other important local stories and milestones in history.”

Torbay Development Agency Chief Executive, Steve Parrock, said: “Phase II restoration marks a new era for Torre Abbey and will put this historic house and gardens on the map as aSouth Devonattraction.

“The restoration work will include repairing and stabilising the roof structures, repairing the masonry and restoring lime stucco. It also includes an impressive interpretation project which will commemorate a wealth of local history and heritage.”

David Snell, Operations Director, Kier Western, said: “Kier is delighted to be returning to Torre Abbey Historic House to carry out the second phase of renovation works.

"Having been the contractor for phase 1, we know the sort of challenges a grade 1 listed building and ancient monument presents.

“Our team has a great deal of experience in using the traditional materials and skills, such as lime rendering, lime plastering and stonework repairs, needed to meet English Heritage requirements.”

Torre Abbey is one of the best preserved medieval monasteries in Devon andCornwall. The site is home to the famous 'Spanish Barn' - a medieval tithe barn originally built to store taxes paid to the Abbey in the form of grain and hay. The Abbey, also a museum and art gallery, houses an impressive art collection including pieces by William Blake and Edward Burne-Jones.

The work will take approximately two years to complete, during which time the Abbey will close but the gardens will continue to be open throughout the restoration period. A temporary exhibition celebrating the restoration will be touring the Bay, dates to be announced in due course.