Worksop: Work begins to save historic Gatehouse

The Gatehouse and nearby cloister wall, which formed the main entrance to the priory in the 14th century, were both placed on the first Register in 1998.

However, the future now looks more hopeful for both buildings thanks to successful fundraising and grant aid.

Work will soon start on repairs on the Gatehouse, which is thought to incorporate the only surviving example of an English medieval walk through shrine where pilgrims would enter to one side, kneel, pray and leave by the opposite door.

In the 17th century the gatehouse was converted to the Abbey School, and served generations of Worksop children until the 1970s.

English Heritage planning and conservation director for the East Midlands, Dr Anthony Streeten said: “Threats confront our most valuable heritage sites in many different ways.”
 “And when problems arise it’s not just buildings and monuments that are affected, but also the communities around them. However heritage becomes ‘at risk’, English Heritage is prepared to work across the East Midlands with our partners, owners and the public, to find solutions”.

“This year we have gained a much better understanding of the risks facing places of worship across the region.”

“More churches are on the Register now, but we can also point to much experience and many successes in tackling risk, both to valued church buildings and other historic buildings that add so much character and life to the region”.

Thirteen buildings or structures have been taken off the Register in the East Midlands with a safe future this year, and seven have been added.