The charity behind Ilkley's historic Manor House is calling on Bradford Council to fund a six-figure repair bill for work to make the roof safe.
The building was registered with the council as a 'dangerous structure' after a tile fell from the roof in the autumn. Scaffolding was put up - including some by Bradford Council - because of the potential risk of injury if any more tiles fall.
A full survey by a heritage roofing contractor was commissioned by the Ilkley Manor House Trust, which concluded that the roof required a complete overhaul with all the slates being removed. The majority would be retained and refixed but matching replacements would need to be added where necessary.
The work would also include a review and upgrade the thermal insulation which would help reduce rapidly escalating energy bills for the House. The total cost of this work is in the region of £100,000.
Since receiving this survey, the Trust has been in negotiations with Bradford Council regarding the costs of renewing the roof.
Bradford Council remains the owner and landlord of Ilkley Manor House and, whilst acknowledging that major repair falls within their remit, Trust says that the council has responded to say that its financial situation does not permit it to undertake the work.
Income to keep the Manor House open as a community asset comes in part from holding special events such as weddings and celebratory events. The Trust says it's already had several such enquiries terminated when the information about the scaffolding is shared with
potential hirers.
Sir Rodney Brooke, President of Ilkley Manor House Trust said:
"Ilkley Manor House is the oldest civil building in the area and houses important historic relics which tell the story of the area’s cultural history.
"The House is also a medieval Grade I listed building, the oldest civic building in the area and is built on top of a scheduled ancient monument, the Roman fort. It is a crucial part of Bradford’s history and part of our remit as Trustees is to safeguard this important heritage asset for the town."
Sarah Thomas, Chair of the Manor House Trust, said:
"Since the Trust rescued it from closure seven years ago, the Manor House has become a vital part of the area’s cultural and social life. Throughout this period the Trust has run the Manor House without any financial support from Bradford Council."
The Trustees say they feel strongly that Bradford Council must contribute to the upkeep of the Ilkley Manor House.
Roger Tilbrook, the Trustee who is leading this work and is in negotiations with key stakeholders added:
"I am hopeful that negotiations are drawing to a conclusion, and we can soon report that Bradford have recognised their responsibility and have agreed to fund works which will provide a solution to this challenge that we face. We feel this is right and appropriate, especially in the year Bradford celebrates being UK City of Culture."
A Bradford Council spokesperson said:
“We have met with the Ilkley Manor House Trust to discuss the repairs that are needed on the roof. This is an important, historic Grade I-listed building that stands on the remains of a Roman fort and we will continue to work with the Trust.”
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