Rescue of a 15th century 'cathedral'

Lawyers based in Bond Pearce's Bristol offices have helped English Heritage to secure the future of Harmondsworth Barn in west London. The building is one of the great buildings of England built in 1426 by Winchester College. 

Harmondsworth Barn in west London [Credit: Bristol Evening Post]

The Grade I-listed barn ranks alongside the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace for its exceptional architectural and historic interest. 

Rescued by English Heritage from years of neglect and decay, the oak-framed medieval barn – dubbed by the late poet laureate and heritage campaigner Sir John Betjeman as the "Cathedral of Middlesex" will open to the public in spring under the guardianship of English Heritage, joining national attractions such as Stonehenge and parts of Hadrian's Wall. 

Harmondsworth Barn had been bought in 2006, by an off-shore company whose interest appeared to be only in land values and not in the history or architectural significance of the barn. The company did not maintain the barn or use it for any purpose and in 2009, alarmed by its deteriorating condition, English Heritage issued an Urgent Works Notice for emergency repairs to make the barn wind and water tight. 

While settling the costs of these repairs with the owners, English Heritage purchased the barn for £20,000. 

Patrick Wetherall, Property Litigation Partner at Bond Pearce, commented: "It was a pleasure to assist English Heritage with such a worthy cause." 

Source: Bristol Evening Post [February 01, 2012]