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Chichester Cathedral
Stone replacement
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Rising above the historic city, Chichester Cathedral had long been described by the architectural historian Nikolaus Pevsner as “the most typical English Cathedral.” Founded in 1075, its architecture brought together Norman solidity and Gothic refinement, seen in its round-arched windows and west-facing twin towers. Among England’s medieval cathedrals, it held two rare distinctions: a free-standing bell tower and double aisles. Its story reached further back still. In 681, Wilfrid of York brought Christianity to Sussex, laying the foundations for what would follow. By 1076, construction of the present building was underway, later completed under Bishop Luffa and consecrated in 1108.
Client
Chichester Cathedral
Dates
March 2018
—
October 2019
Location
Chichester
Grade listing
Grade I
Fabric
Lead
Copper
Architects
St Ann’s Gate Architects
Stone from Across the Sea
The fabric of the cathedral reflected its wide-reaching origins. Early construction drew stone from the Isle of Wight and from Normandy in France, materials that gave the building both strength and character. Over centuries, however, exposure and age required careful maintenance to preserve these historic elements.
Renewing the Roof Above
As part of a £2.2 million programme of works undertaken between March 2018 and October 2019, the existing copper roof covering was removed. In its place, a new sand-cast lead roof was installed, reinstating a more traditional material better suited to the building’s historic character and long-term performance.
Repairing the Tower and Stonework
DBR Southern carried out extensive stone replacement and repointing works to the tower above the Chapel of St Michael. Weathered and deteriorated masonry was carefully repaired, ensuring that the structure remained stable while preserving its original appearance.
Completing the Work in Lead
Following the masonry works, DBR Leadwork undertook extensive roof repairs across the cathedral. These interventions ensured that the building’s upper fabric, its first defence against the elements, was restored and protected.
A Landmark Secured for the Future
When the works were complete, Chichester Cathedral remained outwardly unchanged, its towers, arches, and stone still defining the skyline as they had for centuries. Yet beneath that familiar form, the roof had been renewed, the stonework stabilised, and the structure secured.
Through careful conservation and traditional craftsmanship, the project ensured that this defining example of Norman and Gothic architecture continues to endure, its long history carried forward into the future.
