## **Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust** - preserving buildings of architectural and historic importance - · helping to rescue buildings at risk - organising talks, exhibitions and visits - providing learning and outreach programmes for young people - managing two heritage museums and a medieval hall Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust The Castle, Hertford SG14 1HR Telephone 01992 504331 (option 1) E-mail: enquiries@hertfordshirebpt.org Website: www.hertfordshirebpt.org Twitter - @HBPTrust Facebook - www.facebook.com/HertfordshireBPT Registered Charity No: 232686 ## **President:** **The Countess of Verulam CVO** ## _**Front cover:**_ _Heritage Open Day at Place House Hall in collaboration with Ware Museum. Bringing history to life for children with activities and stories,_ _Thank you to volunteers Maureen Whalley, from Ware Museum and Marge Ellis_ ## **PART ONE** |Notice of Annual General Meeting|4| |---|---| |Directors and Officials of the HBPT|5| |Directors and Officials of the HBPT|5| |---|---| |Supporters of the HBPT-Subscribers and Local Authorities|6| |Chairman’s Report|7| |Place House Report|9| |Retirements from HBPT|10| |Cromer Windmill Report|14| |Managing Agent’s Report|16| |Historic Buildings at Risk|17| |Much Hadham Forge Museum Report|20| |BEAMS Ltd Report|22| |HBPT and BEAMS’ Photo Album|23| ## **PART TWO** _Trustees’ Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31st March 2024_ _1 - 19_ Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 ## **PART ONE** **Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Limited** _**Registered Office: The Castle Hertford Herts SG14 1HR Tel: 01992 504331 (option 1) Email: enquiries@hertfordshirebpt.org**_ ## **NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING** _Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the above company will be held on_ ## **6.30pm on Thursday 7th November 2024** _at_ **PLACE HOUSE HALL, WARE** _for the purposes of_ : - **1** RECEIVING THE CHAIRMAN’S REPORT - **2** APPROVING THE REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND THE UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2024 - **3** ELECTING THE DIRECTORS ## **4** APPOINTING INDEPENDENT EXAMINERS **R A JAMESON** _Company Secretary_ **After the meeting Miss Dorothy Abel Smith will give a talk about her years with the Trust 1999 - 2024** _Then light refreshments will be served_ 4 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 ## **OFFICIALS OF THE HBPT** **CHAIRMAN** Miss Dorothy Abel Smith MBE **COMPANY SECRETARY AND HON LEGAL ADVISER** Mr Robert Jameson **HEAD OF CONSERVATION BEAMS Ltd** Ms Emma Lauze ## **MANAGING AGENT** Katherine E C Dace RD BSc FRICS Williamson Dace Brown Property Consultants **MUCH HADHAM FORGE MUSEUM CURATOR** Miss Cristina Harrison ## **LOCAL AUTHORITIES** **Broxbourne Borough Council Dacorum Borough Council East Herts Council Hertsmere Borough Council North Herts District Council St Albans City & District Council Three Rivers District Council Watford Borough Council** **INDEPENDENT EXAMINERS** Menzies LLP **CHAIRMAN BEAMS Ltd** Mr Richard Threlfall **INDEPENDENT BOOKKEEPER** Ms Dariel Lines ## **BANKERS** National Westminster Bank PLC and Handelsbanken GB ## **HON CROMER WINDMILL CUSTODIANS** Mr Andrew Rixon, Mr Ben Freeman & Mr Alan Hickman ## **Represented by:** Cllr Gordon Nicholson Cllr William Allen Cllr Steven Watson Cllr Chris Myers Cllr Emma Fernandes Cllr Ed Moore Cllr Elinor Gazzard Cllr Mark Watkin 5 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 ## **The HBPT is grateful for support from the following:** ## **CORPORATE SUBSCRIBERS** Between Time Conservation Builders Bluecoat Yard Residents Association McMullen and Sons ## **COUNCIL & SOCIETY SUBSCRIBERS** Bayford Parish Council St Albans & Herts Architectural & Archaeological Society Ware Town Council Chorleywood Parish Council Royston and District Local History Society Woodhall Charitable Trust ## **INDIVIDUAL SUBSCRIBERS** Cllr Mrs P Ballam Mr J Cartledge Mr & Mrs G Clark Mr P Clark Mrs F Dimsdale Mr T Emmott Ms L M Foster Mr I Frearson Mrs H Gibson Mr P Hayes Mrs M Henn Mr E James Mrs P King Mr A Sangster Mr D Laing Mr & Mrs J K Strowger Mr & Mrs M A Lavis Mr R H Threlfall Mr R Linard Mr G Tite Dr J Longmore Mr R Tite Mr J Millers Mr N Tufton Mr A Oliver Mr J M Watson Mr J Pepper Ms F Weal & Mr R S C Phillips Mr S Walkington Mrs J Pitman Mr & Mrs R Williams Mr M Prosser Mrs S A Windmill Mr A Rixon Mr J Wing ## **THE HBPT WOULD LIKE TO THANK ITS MEMBERS FOR THEIR CONTINUING SUPPORT** 6 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 ## **CHAIRMAN’S REPORT** 2023 marked the Trust’s 60 years and BEAMS Ltd 30 years. This was an important milestone for any small organisation to have survived all those years and for the gratification of knowing that so many building in the county have been rescued from decay and demolition. Without the Trust’s intervention they could have been lost for ever. This is due to Directors, Staff and Volunteers and all who have supported the Trust in the past and continue to do so. This year we have ensured that the administration and financial affairs continue well. However careful budgeting has been, the alarming cost of maintenance, insurance and administration are serious. The upkeep of the Trust’s own properties is a prime objective. I cannot emphasise too strongly our concern for the future of the Trust through lack of resources. Full reports from each department are included in this Annual Report but I would like to thank everyone who has cared for and supported the HBPT and BEAMS Ltd this last year. First the Directors - Richard Threlfall, Vice Chairman of HBPT, Chairman of - BEAMS Ltd and long standing architectural advisor. John Nicholls a - long standing Director. Richard Thake, Hertfordshire County Councillor. Tim Bell has long experience of investment funding for charities. Jeremy English a retired Surveyor has assisted with regular safely checks at Much Hadham Forge Museum. Imran Tunio has represented the Trust on the Place House Management Company. Cromer Windmill, the last remaining post mill in the county welcomed visitors from around the world but constantly requires maintenance work. The Honorary Custodians Andrew Rixon, Ben Freeman with Alan Hickman as Hon. Treasurer were ably supported by volunteers without whom the Mill could not open. Cristina Harrison, resident Curator at Much Hadham Forge Museum with a small number of volunteers worked with determination to publicise the museum, applied successfully for museum accreditation and seek funding for the new Museum Store. Each year she curates a small exhibition which helps to create local interest around the Hadhams. The Forge first established in 1811 is leased to Richard Maynard, Artist Blacksmith. Place House Hall had a successful year with regular and ad hoc hirings and private events and is now an approved venue for Civil Marriage and Partnership Ceremonies. All this is due to Anne Haworth; she has been the HBPT’s Administrator at Hertford Castle for twenty years. She is the sole member of staff there and carries out an immense amount of work for the general administration of the Trust and BEAMS Ltd and is central to the computerised financial system. She is also Administrator for Place House Hall - and the organiser of numerous events. - BEAMS Ltd suffered badly during Covid 19 but picked up with new enquiries and more work coming in. This is encouraging for Emma Lauze as Head of 7 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 - Conservation who is ably assisted by Helen Cal Fernandez. Surplus income from BEAMS Ltd provided vital funding for HBPT. Statutory Conservation Advice was given to some local authorities and ad hoc work to developers and individuals. Williamson Dace Brown has been the Trust’s Managing Agent since 2004. In difficult circumstances they have carried out general administration and maintenance of the Trust’s portfolio of buildings but always mindful of the cost. I would like to thank Mrs Katherine Dace until recently Senior Partner but now Consultant and her staff for their professional approach and who value the nature of old listed buildings. The Trust owns five buildings which between them incorporate twenty areas to care for, each one having their own needs. I must thank Robert Jameson, Company Secretary and Honorary Legal Advisor since the early 1980s for his unstinting help and professional advice. He is retiring from the Trust this year. Dariel Lines, the Independent Bookkeeper who took on the role following Duncan Brand’s death in 2019 and Mrs Angela Watt’s retirement in 2022. All of us who work with her are grateful for her patience and understanding of the Trust’s finances. The Accountants Menzies LLP (previously Wagstaffs) of Stevenage for preparation of the annual accounts and for being the Trust’s appointed Independent Examiners. I would like to acknowledge the support that Local Authorities give. The majority of councils nominate an elected councillor to represent them on HBPT Ltd and have the sole voting rights at Annual General Meetings. Council, Corporate, Individual and Society Subscribers play an important role through their support, legacies and practical help throughout the year. I will be retiring at the Annual General Meeting so this is my valedictory report. - For twenty four years it has been my great privilege to lead the HBPT. Each year I repeat my thanks for the support, friendship and good humour given by everyone past and present and I leave with so many outstanding memories. We face an unknown future but the Trust has survived highs and lows for 60 years so we must remain confident and assist wherever we can to preserve Hertfordshire’s fragile heritage. ## **Dorothy Abel Smith, Chairman** 8 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 ## **PLACE HOUSE REPORT** **The Hall** - following last year’s announcement that the hall has become an approved venue for Civil Marriage and Partnership Ceremonies we are delighted to report that the hall has hosted three ceremonies in 2024 Regular hirers continue to use the hall for bridge, yoga, craft, U3A groups, meditation etc and one off hires for children’s parties, family get togethers, christening receptions are very popular **The Garden** - is maintained by Mudlarks Gardening Team (Charity no: 1132403) ## **Heritage Open Days 2024** **- Sunday 8th September** we had volunteers dressed in Tudor clothing and free activities for children to help bring the history of Place House to life; the hall was set out as it might have looked when it was Christ’s Hospital School and there were Tudor costumes to dress up in (thanks to The Costume Workshop, Little Hadham) learning about life as a Bluecoat School child, designing a coat of arms, making a horn book etc. We thank Ware Museum and for bringing costumes and household items for children to look at and engage with. **Sunday 15th September -** the hall was open for visitors to explore the history of Place House through information panels, a slide show and a talk by Chairman, Dorothy Abel Smith. **Place House Management Company Ltd** - Directors of PHMC are the lessees of Place House; HBPT’s current representative is Director Imran Tunio. The company manages the communal areas of the whole building. _Thank you to the Sarah & John for allowing us to share a photograph from their beautiful ceremony. (Photography by Helen Weir Photography)_ 9 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 ## **RETIREMENTS FROM HBPT** **At this year’s AGM in November we will say goodbye to Dorothy Abel Smith, Chairman; Richard Threlfall, Vice Chairman; John Nicholls, Director and Rob Jameson, Company Secretary as they all retire. Together they have clocked up approximately 100 years of service to the Trust; with this in mind we have asked each of them to write a little bit about themselves and their time with the Trust.** ## **Dorothy Abel Smith** In 1999 I was invited to lead a new Buildings at Risk Committee. This was to gather and record those at risk in the county. I became a Director of HBPT. In January 2002, the Trust Chairman James Reid un-expectantly resigned and I was elected Chairman the same day! So, for 24 years I have worked to the best of my ability to head the Trust and there has been no let up. Directors and staff have changed but all the responsibilities have _Dorothy Abel Smith with Lord Salisbury and Jo Ridehalgh, from City & Country Group at the opening of the Conservation + Design Show 2006 at Hatfield House_ continued. My first event was the Conservation + Design Show at Hatfield house. Then came the centenary of Letchworth Garden City. In 2003 the Trust inherited 66 Queen Street, Hitchin a good c19[th] house which required a great deal of repair and modernisation but later sold. In 2004 the Trust changed Managing Agents. We engaged Williamsons who later became Williamson Dace and in time added Brown. We have been fortunate to have their professional services to care for the Trust’s own buildings. At that time the Trust changed the firm of Accountants to Wagstaff of Stevenage, recently become Menzies LLP. In 2006 Ware Town Council relinquished their lease of Grade I Place House, Ware. This fine mediaeval hall required a new lease of life for the community and is licenced for Civil Marriages. But the roof and exterior walls required extensive renovation, so this was carried out but at considerable expense. Over the years, the Trust’s other buildings have all required costly maintenance, sensitive conservation and modernisation. In 2007/08 Grade II* Much Hadham Forge Museum desperately needed upgrading and with the addition of a room for visitors with kitchen and full facilities for events and exhibitions. The Museum re-opened in 2009. Grade II* Cromer Windmill near Walkern has required constant and costly 10 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 maintenance. The five Castle Cottages Grade II* adjacent to Hertford Castle are leased out. Never ending repairs to standards that tenants expect are carried out where possible. Grade II* Dewhurst St Mary Cheshunt dates from 1640 has four apartments on long leases and a dining hall for the nearby modern primary school. Then in March 2020 Covid- 19 struck. The Trust was no longer permitted to open Place House Hall, The Forge Museum or Cromer Windmill. The fall in visitor income became serious but administration and costs continued. Later East Herts Council assisted with start-up grants. All three have returned to normal life thanks to staff and volunteers. In 2023 the Trust celebrated 60 years. An important milestone for a small organisation. However, funding has always been of concern and will become more difficult. My time with the HBPT has been a privilege. These challenging years could not have been accomplished without the support of Directors, staff and all others we work with. ## **Richard Thelfall** Had followed the work of the Trust as a member since the early 1980’s, enjoying advice from Russ Craig. Applying, on behalf of clients, for Historic Grant aid administered by the Trust. The AGMs were then held in the ball room on the 1st floor of Shire Hall, a memorable meeting in 1985(?) heard Savilles Surveyors argue for demolishing some ancient clay barns on a large estate farm adjoining the A10 and before construction of the M25. Part of the estate is now to be developed by an American film company and the barns conserved, under the aegis of Broxbourne Borough Council. A stalwart of the district Council to be heard in meetings held in the County Hall Chamber was Miss Lillian Lloyd Taylor, Director of the Trust, who introduced Jean Page to the Trust, who, in 1999, willed the Forge estate to the Trust. Beside passing on the buildings Jean Page also gifted a large fund invested by her family. Directors agreed that some of the monies should be used to renovate the properties rather rundown and dishevelled buildings. Specialist contractors were appointed to strip roofs, repair timbers, insulate, and retile all the roofs, excluding the Forge, blacksmiths shop and stable. Introduced by Councillor Peter Ruffles and Russ Craig in late 1998, my apprenticeship was served with Jim Read as chairman, and Directors were industrial company leaders. The Property Agent was Chris Powlet of Drake & Co. who had been appointed in 1972, when Castle Cottages were being renovated. In 2002 Robert Dimsdale failed to persuade me to become chairman, due to 11 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 demands of my small practice and, for the vast benefit of the Trust introduced the highly connected and erudite Dorothy Abel Smith. My worst meeting was the argumentative confrontation with tenants of Place House, and representatives of Bluecoat Yard Owners. This steamy and downright rude event created changes of ownership and management. Shared ownership and lease of the Hall was returned from the Ware Town Council/ Museum/War Memorial who claimed no management profit could be made. The control of tenancies was updated to the new management company procedure. After the whole building was redecorated externally, responsibility was handed to the tenants with 35% remaining with HPBT, and a Director as chairman. Anne Haworth volunteered to manage the Hall, which she is doing most successfully. Internal alterations to the ground floor make the spaces more compact and attractive for continuous hirings, and now weddings. Russ Craig created and inspired the work of the Trust to conserve historic buildings and furthered the work with a series of seminars inspiring fellow Architects and exemplified by the Conservation and Design shows held in the grounds of Hatfield House in 2002, 4 and 6, (sadly hampered by foot and mouth disease in 2001), and reductions in support by Councils and recently by rising expenses. ## **John Nicholls** After my RAF national service, I started studying and qualified as a Chartered Surveyor. Following this, I worked for the Rank Organisation and then Sun Life Assurance Society where I became an Executive and then Managing Director of Sun Life Properties. My work resulted in an extensive experience of company management and the purchasing of a variety of commercial properties, not confined to the UK, but also throughout Europe, the USA and Australia. I retired in 1992. Following my retirement, I became involved in local government and was elected to Welwyn and Hatfield Council where I specialised in planning committees. In addition, I was elected to the local parish council and was chairman on several occasions, as well as being the chairman of a charity which ran a retirement home. I was appointed to HBPT as a nominee of that council. This was the first contact with HBPT. It was considered that my experience as a Chartered Surveyor was valuable to the Trust and I was subsequently invited to join the board in my own right which took effect on 12th March 2011. I now feel, due to advanced years, the time has come when I should stand down from the Trust.The experience has been rewarding and at times challenging due largely to the various unusual properties owned by the Trust, certainly very different to a normal commercial portfolio. There is a near constant challenge to keep these buildings in good order while keeping a close eye on costs. 12 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 ## **Rob Jameson** I graduated in law from Sheffield University in the latter part of the swinging sixties, was admitted as a solicitor in 1971, and headed south in 1974 to head up the team dealing with Planning and Highways law in the legal department at Hertfordshire County Council. It was while at County Hall that I met the late Russ Craig, stalwart of HBPT, then plying his trade in the County Planning department, and we became good friends. There was always the odd pint (or two) of McMullens Country bitter to be consumed after work, just down the hill at the John O'Gaunt where planners and lawyers alike enjoyed each other's company. I believe it's now called 'networking', but we called it 'fun'. My career took a distinct turn in 1980 when the chief executive, Morris le Fleming, told me to head up the team of Local Authorities fighting the expansion of Stansted Airport, as Instructing Solicitor to a top class team of Planning barristers. The Public Inquiry lasted two years and with the wind in my sails I never returned to my desk at County Hall. A Sheffield University pal, Chris Hill and I nailed a brass plaque to the wall and set up in Hertford as 'Jameson and Hill, Solicitors' in 1982. A further office followed shortly in Ware, and 42 years later the firm survives and flourishes as Attwaters Jameson Hill. Sometime shortly after setting the firm up, Russ decided to introduce me to Robert Dimsdale, the then Chairman of HBPT. We hit it off immediately and as he was looking for a new Company Secretary and Honorary Solicitor I was asked to come on board. In those days I attended the regular - board meetings. The Trust then operated very much on a 'revolving fund' basis buy a property at risk, renovate it, sell it, and use the proceeds to purchase the next property at risk. Board meetings in my memory were a catalogue of inevitable cost overruns (there was inevitably something nasty discovered which hadn't been budgeted for) but we always emerged intact and sunny side up! After 40 years plus as Company Secretary it is most certainly time to hang up my boots. I have enjoyed my time with the Trust enormously and wish it success and prosperity long into the future. **With their commitment and contribution to the Trust over all these years it is no exaggeration to say that the Trust would not be what it is today without them.** **We thank them for all they have done and wish them all the very best for the future.** 13 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 ## **CROMER WINDMILL REPORT** This year we were hoping that we could repaint the buck of the windmill as we could see that the paintwork was flaking. But then we discovered that unfortunately some of the boards on the roof had failed and were lifting in high wind and letting the rain penetrate the top of the windmill. This was very serious as it would cause extensive rot. Fortunately it could wait until after the summer season, but the windmill would need to be covered with scaffolding while the work was done, and the workmen's materials would need to be stored inside the roundhouse and the rotten timber would obviously lie on the ground till the work was completed. The whole thing was complicated by the fact that we would need to examine the roof closely to find out precisely what needed to be done before we could tender for the work. As a result we had to hire a cherry picker, and Ricky Nevel the contractor and Robin Webb the consultant went up on it and examined the roof, ascertaining that fewer boards needed replacing than the worst scenario as seen from the ground. There were the usual fire drills in March, and they led to our being able to recruit three more guides, which made scheduling the open days much easier. In May, on the National Mills Weekend, we opened to the public, and the Stevenage Amateur Radio Society came up on the morning of the first day and set their equipment up in the car park so that they could broadcast from the mill. All went very well with that, and as it was a nice day everyone had a nice time, although the atmospheric conditions were not ideal all day. This was a great change from last year, when it was so cold that they had to pack up when they had only been there for about an hour, so were gone long before any visitors arrived. The opening season was successful, with 245 adults and 64 children. Our new guides were very enthusiastic, and one of them, Magda Orpel, offered to redesign our website for us as she and her husband, Adam Pajdzik, are graphic designers. This was a wonderful offer, and now we have a fine, up-to-date website which I hope will help to attract more visitors www.cromerwindmill.co.uk In August Owen York, the local farmer, had sunflowers growing in the field next to the car park and was open to the public to come and have a look at them in the school holidays, buy them and have tea, coffee and cake from a stall he had set up, and this brought in more visitors. The sunflowers with the windmill behind made a lovely sight in the sunshine. 14 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 _Sunflowers in the field next to Cromer Windmill_ Finally the period when the windmill is open to the public came to an end on Heritage Weekend in September, and straight away the scaffolding went up and the carpenters got to work replacing the rotten boards at the top of the roof. This will be followed by a thorough cleaning and painting of the buck. The rotten - wood on the right hand stringer of the ladder will be replaced and fresh bolts fitted to the winding mechanism attached to the fantail, so next year the windmill will be ready for another set of visitors. On the last weekend we were visited by Dorothy Abel Smith, our retiring chairman. She particularly wanted to come up for the last weekend and also when Magda was there to thank her for the work she and Adam had put into our website. ## **Andrew Rixon, Honorary Custodian** Thank you to our marvellous team of Guides: **Claire Beechey, Mike Bishop, Pauline Broadhurst, Lorna Owen, Jeremy Ewen, Ben Freeman, Alan Hickman, Ron Hollings, Magda Orpel, Ian Prosser, Andrew Rixon, Peter Ruffles, Robin Webb, Ken Weeks and Peter Williamson** 15 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 ## **MANAGING AGENT’S REPORT** Sadly, yet again the long damp winter has taken its toll on the Trust’s properties. The requirement for the tenants to ventilate and heat together with the consequential increase in electricity costs has proved difficult for tenants to balance leading to significant condensation issues. - We have however completed external decoration to 8 16 Castle Cottages and 12 Castle Cottages upgraded internally. Cromer Windmill is undergoing further major redecoration works, this time to repair and repaint the buck, washing down of the ladder and fantail, and - eradication of rot in the ladder. In addition, partial re boarding and painting of - the roof to the buck as part of the second part of a three year redecoration and repair programme. All of this work has been over seen by Robin Webb to whom we are very grateful for his close attention and counsel. At Dewhurst St Mary, we are pleased to report no further dry rot outbreaks to the Dining Hall. In Much Hadham, we are undertaking external redecoration of the exterior and renewed the rotten garage doors to Horseshoe Cottage. I am grateful to Cristina Harrison, the museum’s curator and Jeremy English for their assistance in running the Museum building and ensuring that all the alarm systems are regularly checked. As ever this has been an expensive year maintaining the buildings for the Trust and no end is in sight. External decoration is now required to Dewhurst St Mary in 2025 and the next phase of the work to Cromer Windmill. Whilst it is vital that these buildings are preserved for the future it is also necessary to continue to maintain them in good condition in order to ensure that the best possible rents can be achieved. ## **Katherine E C Dace, RD BSc FRICS** 16 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 ## **Historic Buildings at Risk** The HBPT and BEAMS, supported by District Councils, hold registers of buildings that are in urgent need of attention. If you require further information on any issues please contact the appropriate Planning or Conservation Departments through their switchboards |Departments through their switchboards|| |---|---| |Broxbourne Borough Council (BBC)|01992 785555| |Dacorum Borough Council (DBC)|01442 228583| |East Hertfordshire Council (EHC)|01279 655261| |Hertsmere Borough Council (HBC)|02082 072277| |North Hertfordshire District Council (NHDC)|01462 474000| |St Albans City & District Council (SAC&DC)|01727 866100| |Stevenage Borough Council (SBC)|01438 242242| |Three Rivers District Council (TRDC)|01923 776611| |Watford Borough Council (WBC)|01923 226400| |Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council (WHBC)|01707 357000| ## **HISTORIC ENGLAND** For further information on Buildings at Risk go to: ## **https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/what-is-designation/** ## **BUILDING AT RISK REPORT** The HBPT and BEAMS continue to monitor buildings that are at risk or require a new use and income. We aim to gather information from around the county and BEAMS can offer conservation advice as appropriate. The majority of local authorities are members of HBPT Ltd and can report issues to Directors at the twice-yearly Company Meetings. This is a useful forum for recording progress (or often lack of) rescue and restoration work. Planning laws forbid the demolition of listed buildings as a result many old buildings have remained but others have unfortunately slipped through the net. Historic England publishes an Annual Risk Register of Grade I and Grade II* buildings, historic parks and gardens. Several in the county are long term and remain unresolved. 17 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 ## **Hertfordshire’s Buildings At Risk include:** Seven Local Authorities appoint an elected Representative to HBPT Ltd. Following recent council elections there are new representatives to welcome. Directors meet them twice a year to report on the Trust. We then ask each member for updates on Buildings At Risk and state of works in progress. ## A selection is listed here: ## **Broxbourne Borough Council** : Sunset Film Studios acquired a large site for filming near Cheshunt and restoration of former farm buildings. This includes the rare late 18th century Grade II* Thatched Clay Barn, a long standing BAR. ## **Dacorum Borough Council** : Heath Farmhouse, Heath Barn Cottage and Heath Barn, Boxmoor all Grade II are all buildings of concern ## **East Herts Council** : Restoration of Mayor Ashley Webb’s listed 1937 shelter and Grade 1 Norman Motte at Hertford Castle are part of a major project to improve the grounds; Panshanger Park Orangery Grade II, discussions continue to restore it as a Visitor Centre; Old St Mary’s and All Hallows Church tower, Thundridge Grade II*discussions continue to secure the future of the site between a local group TOCAG and the Diocese of St Albans; Hertford East Station Grade II - the portico roof requires repair by the Railway Company; 22/24- 26 St Andrew Street Hertford Grade II - planning permission granted but awaits major works to commence; Briggens country house and park Grade II near Stansted Abbots are derelict and await a future. ## **North Herts District Council** : Threshing Barn, Highover Farm, Hitchin. Grade II. Work in progress to restore as part of a large housing development; White Hall Farm, Luffenhall Grade II has an uncertain future: Lower Green Farm, Ickleford has listed farm buildings and due to be disposed of - by HCC; Barn at Clothall Bury long term BAR in poor condition and awaits repair and a use. **Hertsmere Borough Council** : no recent reports received ## **St Albans City & District Council** : a rare Crinkle Crankle Wall, Wheathampstead Grade II awaits restoration; 18 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 - Old Parkbury House, Colney Street Grade II (Tarmac Ltd) registered at risk since 1993 ## **Three Rivers District Council** : Oxhey Hall, Camper Mill Lane, Bushey Grade II*(Affinity Water); - Langley Bury House, Kings Langley Grade II* both each require regular - maintenance; Croxley Great Barn, Rickmansworth Grade II* a long term BAR (St Joan of Arc School) still seeks new ownership, full restoration and a future use. ## **Watford BoroughCouncil** : Little Cassiobury House Grade II* (HCC) is due to be sold. Local concerns continue over its future use; Watford Place Grade II, the building is deteriorating through lack of maintenance; 97 High Street Grade II, a Dangerous Structure notice was issued in 2023 and has a rare surviving interior; The Old Station House 147a St Albans Road Grade II has lain empty for many years and vandalised. Potential uses are sought. The Trust is pleased to learn when a listed building is restored and no longer a building at risk. This year the Black Barn at Woodoaks Farm, Maple Cross Grade II* has been restored and is now in community use. ## **Dorothy Abel Smith Chairman** _Black Barn at Woodoaks Farm, Maple Cross Grade II*_ 19 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 ## **MUCH HADHAM FORGE MUSEUM** Much of the Curator’s year was taken up with the Museum Accreditation submission to The Arts Council. Some fifteen Plans and Policies were written for the application: my thanks to Trust Chair, Dorothy Abel Smith, for her time in checking and approving the documents and to Dariel Lines for undertaking the financial reports. It was a great relief to us all when the museum was awarded Full Accreditation. The museum continued to support local students through provision of 6 work experience placements, volunteering opportunities with the Duke of Edinburgh scheme and providing University students with research opportunities relevant to our collections. Congratulations and thanks are due to Will Jeffries, who continued his volunteer placement to achieve a D of E Gold Award, Rose Jeffries, Oliver Porter and Jem Cox who all achieved their Bronze Awards. We are currently working with UEA student Shannon Hedges, who is conducting research into Roman Hadham Ware pottery and has volunteered to help conserve our collection. Local volunteers have supported the Curator throughout the year, assisting with research for the current free exhibition “The People of The Palace”, (showing until 15th December 2034). This explores the stories and experiences of the people who have lived at The Palace from Royal guests to confined lunatics and wartime evacuees. There is still time to visit! The new year brought amazing news as our grant application to The Royal Society’s Places of Science programme was successful. Museum Education Freelancer, Francesca Chinnery, will be working with Year groups 2 and 4 from St. Andrew’s School to produce and trial a school and family friendly activity making the links between our collection and science. The grant award also funds a blacksmith taster weekend with Rich Maynard when participants can have a go and make a small item to take home. Stay peeled to our social media for updates in the New Year. Particular thanks are due to volunteers Keith Hutley and Christine Clayton, who continue to help with conserving the collections and manning events. Trust Director Jeremy English continues to take responsibility for fire safety at the museum. Also, youth volunteer Lucas Gooch, who organises an annual Halloween fundraiser at the museum. Be sure to join us! 20 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 **HADHAM HAUNTZ presents “Macabre Manor”** at the museum Thursday - 31st October, noon 8.30pm The outdoor trail is open from noon. Will you brave the witches and pirates and the haunted monks’ graveyard! Activity, craft table and refreshments will be available. (£2.50 per child) – The evening house trail is open from 5.30 8.30pm (£2.50) Expect scares galore as you pass through themed rooms designed by youth volunteer and Scare Director Lucas Gooch. **Annual Remembrance Dinner & Talk, “Hadham’s Heroes” by Cristina Harrison** Saturday 9th November, 8 pm start, 2 Courses & Prosecco toast, Tickets £30, at Much Hadham Village Hall. Booking is essential. Text/Call 07483 113345 to register your interest. **Much Hadham Christmas Market & Santa’s Grotto** Sunday 24th November, noon -5pm Visit Santa in his grotto at the forge (includes gift and selfies £10), buy great gifts from local makers and enjoy festive crafts. Food and refreshments available. VENUES: Much Hadham Village Hall and Much Hadham Forge Museum. To help the museum implement future plans and fundraise for a new artefact store, you can donate at **https://bit.ly/MuseumGift** Email: hadham.museum@btinternet.com Answerphone: 01279 843301 Mobile: 07483 113345 Website: www.hadhammuseum.org.uk Twitter/Facebook/Instagram/TikTok/YouTube/Threads: @HadhamMuseum ## **Cristina Harrison, Curator** _The museum and adjoining cottages, Much Hadham High Street_ 21 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 - Since the annual report of 2022 2023, BEAMS has carried on in much the same pattern of work. The staff continue with hybrid working with a regular office day on Tuesdays. The workflow has continued to be consistent, with local authority work providing that much needed bread and butter work with private work undertaken on top. BEAMS was able to build on the healthy profit turned in 2022/2023 and increase it further, which gives us enormous satisfaction, not least because of the donation that BEAMS has been able to give to the Trust. ## **PART TWO** - Dacorum Borough Council continued to renew its initial year long contract on a - rolling three month basis for three days per week of consultancy work. We also continued to provide conservation advice to the London Borough of Hillingdon following the departure of their conservation officer. Having commenced in December 2022, this finally ended in March 2024 with the appointment of a new permanent conservation officer. We continue to provide conservation advice to the Borough Councils of Stevenage, Luton and Slough on an ad hoc basis. The advice provided has been on statutory casework, as well as work on enforcement cases, appeals and conservation area appraisals (in particular the village of Wilstone in Dacorum). Due to the amount of local authority work that BEAMS has taken on, the capacity for private work remains lower than in previous years. We continue to provide Heritage Statements for proposals to listed buildings or within their setting, to assist the planning process. Some interesting cases have been on Theresa’s Cottage, Marden Hill, Tewin, Twyford House, Thorley and 3 Stapleford Place Farm, Stapleford. Following the end of the Hillingdon contract there has been scope for ad hoc work for Dacorum in the form of some interesting heritage impact assessments in connection with potential development sites as listed in the Local Plan. These included Apsley Mills, Apsley, Dunsley Farm, Tring and Land South of Berkhamsted. BEAMS continues with a small staff of two people. Emma Lauze, worked full-time for Dacorum and Hillingdon while Helen Cal-Fernandez worked two days a week on the ad hoc work for Stevenage, Luton and Slough as well as undertaking the research and writing of Heritage Statements. Richard Threlfall continued as Chairman of the Board, and we are grateful for all his advice and encouragement throughout the year. BEAMS is also hugely grateful for the invaluable administrative support provided by Anne Haworth and the financial advice and guidance of Dariel Lines. **Ms Emma Lauze Head of Conservation** 22 27 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 **THE HBPT & BEAMS’ PHOTO ALBUM 2023/2024** _The grade II* cottages in Bluecoat Yard opposite Place House. A terrace of 10 houses, all one building, built as `nurse cottages' for Bluecoat School in Place House. c1687-89_ _Place House Hall set up for a Christmas Craft & Gift Fair November 2023_ The Limes, Matching Green , Essex subject of Heritage Statement by BEAMS Grade II Causeway Cottage, 5 Church End, Braughing, Herts subject of Heritage Statement by BEAMS 26 23 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 Hertfordshire Building Preservation Trust Annual Report & Financial Statements 2023 / 2024 _Oliver Porter and Jem Cox, clearing the ground around a tree stump which is in the way of the planned foundation slab for the new museum store. Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award placement 2023_ _The museum gardens, both front and back, continue to develop under the expert touch of our gardener, Charlie Cox_ _Volunteers Magda Orpel and Jane Gifkin with Chairman, Dorothy Abel Smith at Cromer Windmill 7th September 2024_ _- View from the top of the windmill this will be covered by solar panels if a planning application is approved_ 24 25