Torre Abbey is a tourist attraction owned by Torbay Council. It is one of the best preserved medieval monasteries in the southwest.
As on phase I, Kier is working with the Torbay Development Agency, this time restoring the south range elements. The project also includes the creation of an educational activity zone to be built in the south-east wing, allowing students of all ages to explore the history of the site.
As part of the scheme, the Abbey's top floor will become a gallery based around the 800-year history of Torre Abbey. Displays and viewing stations overlooking Tor Bay will show how the building evolved against the history of the local area.
Kier operations director David Snell said: “We are delighted to be returning to Torre Abbey Historic House to carry out the second phase of renovation works. Having been the contractor for phase I, we know the sort of challenges a Grade I listed building and ancient monument presents.
“Our team has a great deal of experience in using the traditional materials and skills, such as lime rendering, lime plastering and stonework repairs, needed to meet English Heritage requirements.”
Mayor Gordon Oliver said: “This next stage will bring this beautiful building to life with state of the art technology depicting local history through the ages. Since its foundation in 1196, Torre Abbey has witnessed, survived and even played a role in some epic moments of history. It is one of the best buildings in the country to tell the story of 800 years of Catholicism between 1196 and 1930. The restoration will tell these stories but also other important local stories and milestones in history.”
The work will take approximately two years to complete, during which time the Abbey will be closed.
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