Work to restore the Grade I-listed buildings at the heart of Britain’s oldest hospital will begin this summer after news of a multi-million pound Lottery grant.
The National Lottery Heritage Fund has awarded £4.9m to Barts Heritage, the organisation established to rescue and repair the North Wing at St Bartholomew’s Hospital, home to the Great Hall and sweeping staircase painted by William Hogarth.
As part of the work, the staircase will be returned to its former glory, including strengthening its timber frame and conserving an eye-catching 18th-century chandelier.
Both Hogarth canvasses have remained in reasonable condition. However, specialist cleaning and conservation are now required and will also be undertaken as part of the revamp project.
And, as well as the urgent repairs to the staircase and Great Hall, the funding will allow Barts Heritage to reopen the North Wing to the public with walking tours, educational classes, and wellbeing initiatives.
There will also be a chance for the next generation of professional conservators to hone their skills through placements, apprenticeships, and volunteering opportunities.
The Lottery award completes Barts Heritage’s initial £9m fundraising appeal.
Chief executive, Will Palin, said: “The Hogarth Stair is a genuine ‘hidden treasure’ and just one element of our ambitious project combining the much-needed restoration of the one of the most-important historic hospital buildings in the UK with a pioneering heritage and health programme.
“We are thrilled to have secured this transformative grant and look forward to welcoming the public both during restoration works and after the project is complete.”
Established in 1123, St Bartholomew’s will celebrate its 900th anniversary on 25 March this year.
And the North Wing restoration is one of a number of exciting projects to celebrate this unique milestone.
The Hogarth Staircase at St Bartholomew's Hospital will be restored as part of the work
