The Tower Project
The Western Tower of St Nicholas’ church has stood for 600 years so it is not surprising that by the turn of the century significant concerns were being expressed about its condition. Of particular concern was the condition of the high level masonry where blocks had started to fall out putting at risk the interior of the tower. In addition, the lead roof was in poor condition and was leaking putting the interior of the tower and the bells at risk. The 2004 Quinquennial Inspection report by the parish architect made it clear that the situation was critical.
The estimated cost of the repairs was considerably beyond the means of the PCC. However, English Heritage pledged a significant grant and with other grants and reclaiming the VAT the project became realisable. Nevertheless there was a requirement for the local community to raise a significant amount to ensure that all grants would be made. As the parish was in an interregnum at the time it was also seen that the ‘tower problem’ would not be something with which a new incumbent would want to commence his or her ministry.
The PCC then made contact with the local community and ‘STAR’ (Southfleet Tower Appeal by Residents) was formed and the whole community worked together to raise in excess of £50,000. This was achieved in record time and as a result work started on 2 May 2006.
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(l –r) The Archdeacon of Rochester, Zoë McMillan of English Heritage the Rector and Paul Sharrock of Thomas Ford and Partners with the plaque and Time Capsule |
The architects, Thomas Ford and Partners, inspected each stone on the tower to assess its repair needs, noted the stones which needed to be replaced and selected new Kentish Ragstone for the replacements. In addition, they designed the new sand cast lead roof.
Cathedral Works of Chichester were selected as contractors and their skilled craftsmen carefully cut out each stone to be replaced and accurately worked in the new Kentish Ragstone blocks, matching the profiles of the originals. They also cut out the failed pointing and repointed the entire tower in new lime mortar. Finally their plumbers constructed the new lead roof on a new timber boarded structure.
During the project, a small amount of rot was found in the roof structure which was not unexpected and this was carefully repaired. What was a surprise however, was the top of the stair turret. This appeared sound during the investigation works, however when the scaffolding was in place it quickly became apparent that it was in danger of collapse and needed to be partly rebuilt.
The contract ran very smoothly, finishing in September 2006 and 
English Heritage has stated formally that they are delighted with the quality of workmanship. The western tower should now continue to stand securely for many centuries to come.
The whole project reached a climax when the restored tower was rededicated to the service of God by the Archdeacon of Rochester, the Ven Peter Lock on 29 April 2007, 363 days after the restoration had commenced. During this service a commemorative plaque was unveiled and a time capsule was sealed with details of the project and some stories of village life in 2007 for the information of future generations.
The Rector paid tribute to our PCC secretary, Jan Becket, who took on the responsibility of Project Manager for the PCC and was the driving force behind the successful completion of the project.
The service was followed by a reception for all the parishioners and guests in the Southfleet Village Hall.
- The Rectory
- Hook Green Rd
- Southfleet
- Kent
- DA13 9NQ
01474 833252