DEVON HISTORIC BUILDINGS TRUST
CURRENT PROJECTS
It is usual for the Trust to undertake two or three projects of importance in each year but this does depend upon a number of factors.
The greatest influencing factor is the state and health of the property market. When times of affluence exist and prices are strong and houses much in demand the considerable costs of restoration become affordable and so the work of the Trust tends to be of an advisory nature. Even then it is essential to keep a watching brief on those buildings at risk.
There will always exist buildings that, because of the sensitive and so expensive reconstruction required, are not so attractive in the property market. Property developers are in business to make profits and so will not become involved in those structures where one is not readily available.
The Trust is required by its aims and objects to undertake restorations that are faithful to the original design and this can be an expensive business.
Currently....................
The Hooe Barn in Plymouth is an old tithe barn at risk and the Trust is helping to form the Hooe Barn Preservation Trust and assisting Plymouth City Council, who are the owners, to achieve a restoration.
The Embarcation Ramps in Torquay are the historic site whence departed the invasion force of American troops towards the Utah and Omaha beaches of the D-day landings during WW2. Sited in Torquay harbour these structures are at risk as a result of re-development plans.
A small and historic development of shops is at risk in Bideford because, as a result of mulitple inheritance problems, ownership is not clear. The buildings are falling into delapidation as a result. The Trust is working with local interests to solve the problems and start a restoration.