We are delighted to be working as civil and structural engineers for an ambitious project in Grasmere, the Lake District, to transform both the Wordsworth Museum and Dove Cottage, Wordsworth’s home, in advance of the poet’s 250^th birthday in 2020. The project, Reimagining Wordsworth, has been made possible by the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Working closely with Purcell Architects and Max Fordham, our focus will be on finding creative ways to guide the redevelopment of the Estate and establish how to get the best value from its building stock.

Civic Engineers Director, Julian Broster said, “We are very excited to have been appointed as engineers on this prestigious project. This is a challenging site with a great history. With our track record for delivering high profile arts, cultural and heritage projects, we hope to maintain its original qualities within the national park, whilst enhancing the site to make it appeal to today’s visitors and future generations.”

Robert Chambers, Partner at architects Purcell said, “We are delighted to have been appointed to help the Wordsworth Trust realise their vision for Dove Cottage and the Wordsworth Museum. There is great opportunity to draw together the rich experiences of this internationally significant site, enhance the experience for visitors and engage new audiences. Our challenge is to make the site work for today’s visitors, using sensitive conservation and contemporary design to ensure that we maintain the special quality of the place.”

Reimagining Wordsworth is currently in development phase, having been awarded a first round pass from the Heritage Lottery Fund in February 2016. Pending a successful fundraising campaign and a second-round approval from the HLF, work on the scheme is expected to start in Spring 2018 and be completed by Spring 2020.