Roof replacement works to Saffron Walden's Town Hall.

Location: Saffron Walden

Client: Saffron Walden Town Council

Contractor: T Butler & Son

Inspection of the Town Hall roof revealed distortion and a lack of effective support to the rafters. There was widespread evidence of active insect infestation and degradation was moderately advanced in several locations.

Many of the existing roof timbers were deemed beyond economic repair and a more competent framing pattern was needed to provide bearings at plate level. Splice repairs to eradicate concentrations of insect-degraded timber were required and detailed provisions were duly designed.

Roof replacement works were to be undertaken under a temporary scaffold cover in order to maintain continuous operation of the Town Hall. Support for this large expanse of roof was arranged via the existing masonry chimney and lift shaft structures within the footprint of the building.