400-Year-Old Thatched Cottage | Structural Remedial Works

This project involved the restoration of a 400-year-old thatched roof cottage in Bramhall, Stockport, which suffered extensive fire damage in 2022. The property is not listed but is located within a conservation area, meaning a careful and sensitive approach to restoration is essential.

Challenge

The key challenge is balancing modern structural safety standards with conservation requirements. Both the local conservation officer and the property’s new owner are committed to preserving as much of the original structure as possible, despite the significant damage caused by the fire.

Our Role

LK Structures were instructed to carry out a structural inspection and advise on a suitable specification for remedial works. Our brief includes:

• Inspecting and assessing the structural integrity of the remaining timber elements.
• Coordinating with a specialist to undertake stress grading of the existing timbers.
• Using the grading results to inform the design and specification of appropriate strengthening measures.
• Ensuring all recommendations comply with current building regulations while maintaining the property’s historic character.

Progress

We are currently awaiting specialist reports on the existing timbers. Once received, we will finalise our structural design and specification, which will form the basis for the reinstatement of the roof and other remedial works.