Hereford Cathedral Close Project
This is a £5 million project to restore Cathedral Close as an important public space and setting for the Cathedral, after more than a century of heavy use and natural decay.
This exciting project, expected to be completed in 2012, will re-establish the beauty and dignity of the Close at the heart of our historic city and diocese, stimulating the development of tourism, business, culture, learning and access for future generations.
Elements of the project include:
Improved design and access
The scheme defines more clearly the thresholds to the Close, with improved pathways, surface paving and controlled access for vehicles and parking. Physical improvements will include pruning existing trees and planting new trees where they have been lost. New railings along the Broad Street frontage will define the natural boundaries of the Close, emphasising the distinction between the secular and sacred.
Improved infrastructure
An improved lighting scheme for the Close and Cathedral will complement the new landscape and illuminate pathways, architectural features and details within its design. Fundamental improvements and repairs will also take place to drainage systems and local power supplies.
Archaeology
The scheme will involve the careful recording of below-ground archaeology where excavations are required, with hoardings used where necessary when excavating sensitive material.
With its earliest parts dating from 1253 the Cathedral Barn is one of the most significant early buildings in Hereford city. Its conservation as part of this project brings it back into use as a vital educational and storage space for the cathedral and removes it from the English Heritage At Risk register.
The Masons’ Yard
The yard is an integral part of the ongoing life of the cathedral. The masons’ workshop will be upgraded and interpretation of their work improved.
The project presents a unique opportunity for learning and interpretation through the ‘Close Connections’ learning project. ‘Close Connections’ will explore the history and heritage of the Close and its relationship with the city and wider community of Herefordshire. It will include a wide ranging programme of walks, events and projects designed for schools, family groups and lifelong learners.
The Hereford Cathedral Close project is supported by the National Lottery, together with
The Jordan Foundation, Albert & Monique Heijn, English Heritage, Herefordshire Council Garfield Weston Foundation, Hereford City Council, Mark & Elaine Ellis, Lawrence & Elizabeth Banks, Bob & Bea Tabor, The Rowlands Trust and The Headley Trust,
in partnership with the Chapter of Hereford Cathedral, The Friends of Hereford Cathedral,
Hereford Cathedral Perpetual Trust and the Mappa Mundi Trust