Efforts have commenced to save a 15th Century barn in east London from Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register.
The Tithe Barn in Upminster, one of Britain’s largest thatched barns stretching 44 meters (144.4 feet) long, is undergoing a roof re-thatching.
In 2023, this historic structure was recognized as endangered and subsequently placed on the register.
Approximately 11,000 bundles of water reed will be utilized for this undertaking, complemented by the addition of two thatched boxing hare finials atop the roof.
As a scheduled monument, Tithe Barn enjoys the highest level of heritage protection.
Believed to have been built around 1450, the barn emerged during England’s economic downturn known as the Great Slump.
This period contributed to civil unrest and the commencement of the civil war in 1455 between the Lancaster and York factions, later referred to as the Wars of the Roses.
The restoration initiative is a collaborative effort involving National Highways, the London Borough of Havering, Historic England, and the Lower Thames Crossing project.
Ray Morgon, the leader of Havering Council, remarked that the commencement of the thatching represents an exciting milestone in the restoration journey.
“As the stewards of Tithe Barn, Havering takes great pride in having this building as a significant part of the local history,” he stated.
“The ongoing works will ensure that another piece of our heritage remains vibrant for our residents today and for future generations.”
The new thatched roof is anticipated to endure for 50 to 60 years.
