Mark Whitehead 10 May 2023

Council steps in to save 16th century courthouse

Council steps in to save 16th century courthouse  image
Image: Somerset Council.

A 16th century courthouse in Chard, Somerset, has been saved for posterity after the county council stepped in to buy it.

The Grade I listed building retains most of its original features including a first-floor courtroom with a barrel-vaulted ceiling and plasterwork with figures depicting Justice and Wisdom and scenes from the Judgement of Solomon.

The Old Courthouse in town centre Fore Street was owned privately and has been on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register for some time.

But with support from Historic England and Somerset Buildings Preservation Trust, the council has ensured its future.

Historic England supported the council's purchase with a grant of £147,000.

Somerset Building Preservation Trust will lease the building to enable it to complete a range of surveys and studies to explore the long-term future of the premises with a view to completing repairs and restoration.

Ros Wyke, Somerset Council’s lead member for prosperity, assets and development, said: ‘This building is an important part of our shared past.

‘All those involved have worked so hard to make sure this heritage gem is protected for future generations to admire.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Senior Project Manager (Regeneration)

West Yorkshire Combined Authority
£49,359 to £56,057 per annum (pay award pending) – Grade 9
With ambitious goals ahead, we need dedicated individuals who are ready to make a real impact as part of our expanding Housing team Leeds / Hybrid
Recuriter: West Yorkshire Combined Authority

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerPermanent, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerFixed Term, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

HR Advisor - Pay & Policy (Career Grade)

Wakefield Council
Grade 9 - Grade 10, Career Grade, 24 hours, Permanent
Are you ready to make a difference and shape policies that foster a high performing and inclusive workplace? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Leisure Support Assistant

Wakefield Council
£12,013.50 - £12,202.00, Grade 3, 18.5 hours, Permanent
Are You Ready to Make a Difference in Your Community? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council
Linkedin Banner