EXTERIOR
HERITAGE SITES
During mid 20th century, throughout the many decades of neglect, The Edney Gates had fallen into a state of disrepair. It was decided that several sections were to be scrapped on precaution of safety. By the time of the restoration in the 1980s, the overthrow and capitals were missing altogether, presenting the gates in a completely ruinous condition.
Having been commended for his ironwork in Brecon (earning both his brother and himself the Prince of Wales Award), Paul undertook the painstaking task of restoring the gates over a two-and-a-half year period, reconstructing all missing structural components and decorative pieces, whilst employing the same traditional materials, techniques and tools used by the original blacksmith, William Edney in the 18th century. The only credible reference available for conservation was a photograph from 1912 (taken by Country Life Magazine, which even at that time described the condition of the gates as poorly deteriorated). For this work, Paul received the Civic Trust Award.
The gates were repurposed. New columns and overthrows were manufactured, alongside the decorative ironwork that adorns them.
The Albert Memorial, London
For eighty years prior to its restoration, The Albert Memorial had been covered in a thick black paint. A popular theory believes this was to prevent it from becoming a target for zeppelin bombing raids during the First World War. However in regard to whether this is romantic conjecture, it was certainly evident that no maintenance had been carried out on the railings since that time.
Upon recommission, each panel (respectively containing over 500 components apiece) was taken to Wales to be stripped, reassembled, painted and gilded inhouse. All missing parts were recreated using Crown Iron material, the same wrought iron used in Windsor Castle. Paul received the RICS Award for this conservation work.
Bailey Park Gates, Abergavenny
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