Following submission of our report and recommendations for the restoration of the cob walled cow byre, Natural England have confirmed their acceptance and have instructed JBA Ltd to proceed with Phase 2. 

Phase 2 requires the detailed production drawings and specification of materials to enable suitably experienced craftsmen to tender competitively for the works. It is envisaged that works will commence on site in early April.

JBA Ltd is delighted to have been appointed to provide a Management Plan for the proposed restoration of an early Cow Byre of Cob Wall and Thatch construction at Tidmington Farm, Shipston on Stour.

The first phase will involve identification, evaluation and understanding the separate historical, wildlife and landscape values of the building such that there is an appropriately detailed record of any structural or internal features of historical significance.

The drawn document will form a permanent archive record of the building and serve to form the basis for the second phase which will entail the provision of a detailed Specification and Schedule of Works, Tender and Report to carry out works required to bring the building back to good repair based on the "informed conservation" approach and having due regard to the information and evidence gleaned during phase 1.

The intention is to complete both phases according to a brief provided by Natural England such that the resultant works will be eligible for grant funding.

As we head in to the Christmas holiday period, work begins to slow down in readiness for the closure of the site. Since the last update the Contractor has progressed well, with the external and internal walls of the lower ground floor now complete. 


The blockwork for the internal and external walls for the ground floor are reaching ceiling height and the external stonework is coming out of the ground. The garage is approaching wall plate height and the roof should be commenced in the early New Year.

See the slideshow for some of the latest pictures.

Group Directors Bruce Frizzell and David Holland met yesterday with Counsel from No5 Chambers in Birmingham to discuss commencing a judicial review in to procedural irregularities in relation to a dismissed appeal. Following a lengthy discussion it has been resolved to press forward with seeking a judicial review and to seek After The Event insurance to cover the costs. 

The Group Directors are also attending a briefing session provided by No5 Chambers next week on the mechanics of bringing and defending High Court challenges to administrative decisions.