Bespoke projects require bespoke solutions.

Ian Clark Restoration uses proven experience to design and execute difficult and challenging object moves. 

These 2 case studies showcase the need to provide specialist blended project support able to synergise conservation collections care with engineering and logistical knowledge and experience.

English Heritage commissioned Ian Clark Restoration to move a high volume of historic architectural stone from the underground crypt at Buildwas Abbey in Shropshire to their stores at Wrest Park.

The front-end  project provided the opportunity to liaise closely with the EH conservation management and collections care team and carry out a comprehensive site survey to help define sensitive and safe exit routes from the crypt to the loading and transportation area.

The transit routes were protected with soft-wheeled trolleys and surface protection  where applicable.

Portable lifting equipment was erected within the crypt and a temporary loading platform and exit ramp constructed.

Each piece of stone was loaded onto a pallet, safe-guarded with individually cut and targeted surface protection before securing for transport.

Winchester Cathedral provided Ian Clark with an equally challenging project.

Within the crypt of the cathedral lay a highly significant 1000 year old Anglo-Saxon altar stone.

This stone had been identified as providing an integral element to the interpretive collection for the new Kings & Scribes – Birth of a Nation exhibition gallery.

The new gallery is constructed within a spectacular 3-level exhibition space in the southern transept.

Winchester Cathedral is a living monument to the heritage of England and is one of the most historically significant buildings in Britain. From the time of Alfred the Great until after the Norman Conquest, Winchester was England’s capital and the Cathedral was its royal chapel. Much of England’s early history was based here and twelve English kings are believed to be buried here – meaning that Winchester can lay claim to being the first Royal Mausoleum.

Ian Clark was tasked with moving the 1000 year old stone from the crypt, through the nave and up through 3 floors to the upper level of the southern transept.

The first task was to design, construct and erect a modular inclined railway and fail-safe transit trolley system which provided access to the back of the underground crypt out to level ground above the crypt.

Meticulous planning and onsite execution provided a safe and controlled methodology.

This blended composition of conservation, engineering and logistical experience ensured this culturally significant stone was moved and installed with sensitivity and skill.