Work begins to restore and protect historic Grade II* listed Market House

The work has now begun on the Market House. Below is a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the work.

What are the Market House works?

Over the years the Market House has suffered extensive stone erosion and urgently requires specialist conservation.  The stone window surrounds are so badly eroded that there is a serious risk of the glass falling out and the windows being boarded up. The work will not only be for conservation and restoration repairs to the fabric of the building, there are also a number of legacy projects planned, including new interpretation boards to tell the story of the Market House and its wider historical context.

Works will address primary areas of concern specifically much needed repairs to the stone window surrounds to the west, north and east elevations, low level stone repairs along the south elevation, and re-roofing of two hidden tiled roof pitches and other minor repairs and decorations.

Why it is important?

The Market House is one of the main landmarks of Ross-on-Wye and is steeped in history. This project offers the opportunity to conserve this magnificent building.

Who is paying for the works?

The project is being funded by the Town Council and grant funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, The Wolfson Foundation and The Pilgrim Trust to enable the works to be carried out.

When are the Market House works taking place?

The work is due to begin at the start of April and will run until the end of September.

What will this mean for the Market House?

The Market House will be surrounded by scaffolding during this time with secure fencing surrounding the contractor’s area for health and safety. There will be no access to the underneath of the market house, and space on the apron will be limited. We hope to work with local artists to create a piece of artwork on the fencing during the works to make it look more appealing.

Why are the works taking place during peak tourism season?

The harsh winter months are not an ideal time to be undertaking re-roofing works and detailed stone repairs and any works which involve lime mortars which should only be done in conditions 5°C and above, otherwise the cold weather especially near freezing affects the curing process of lime mortars. The tendering process and availability of the contractor has also had influence on when the works are being undertaken.

Why will the work take so long?

Considering the sensitivity, amount and variety of repairs, 20 or so weeks is considered a very reasonable period of time to achieve all the repairs which are necessary.

Who is doing the works?

Following an extensive tendering process the contractors conducting the work is Treasure and Son Ltd – a building and construction company specialising in all aspects of building, from work on scheduled monuments to the restoration of Georgian and half-timbered houses. They have been responsible for employing any sub-contractors.

What will this mean for the weekly market?

The weekly markets will be going ahead as normal. Ross-on-Wye Town Council has had numerous discussions with the market traders to ensure that the impact of the works causes as little disruption as possible. Options explored include; change of location, installing new power points, generators and a road closure. Following the consultation with traders, the market will remain on the apron area, but space will be limited with a reduction of trader fees implemented. Once the work has been completed there will be a relaunch event for the market.

Will there be access to the defibrillator?

The defibrillator is being re-located to the area by the post-box during the duration of the works. This is being done w/c 29th April. There is also another defibrillator nearby at the entrance to St Mary’s Church.