Since 1988 the SBPT, working with local councils, conservation organisations and community trusts, has restored and converted a number of important historic buildings:
Latest
Projects
SAVING No. 9 Fore Street, Chard
& The Courtroom
The future of one of Chard’s most important historic buildings has been secured following its purchase by Somerset Council, working with Historic England and the
Somerset Building Preservation Trust.
The Old Courthouse in Fore Street is a Grade I listed building that dates back to the late 16th century. It retains most of its original features including a first-floor courtroom with a barrel-vaulted ceiling and superb original plasterwork.
The Trust has leased the building and is carrying out a range of surveys and studies with a view to carrying out repairs and restoration to ensure its future.
​
​
Somerset Rural Life Museum, Glastonbury
The extensive £2.3 million refurbishment of the Somerset Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury, including repairs to the magnificent 14th century Abbey Barn, was managed by
the Trust in close co-operation with the South West Heritage Trust.
​
The Victorian farmhouse and former cowshed were completely restyled and adapted to allow wheelchair access to all areas and an old cart shed turned into a multipurpose centre that can be used by visiting schools and for conferences, meetings and community events.
​
This highly-acclaimed project has won two top awards.
It has been given a William Stansell Historic Buildings Award for the high standard of design, excellent use of materials and craftsmanship, and has been named as the best educational building of the year
in the region.
Castle House, Taunton
Following an extensive restoration managed by the Trust, the splendid 15th century Castle House, built against the inner bailey wall of Taunton Castle, is now proving a valuable exhibition/conference/educational space while the upper floors are a holiday let.
The £1.1 million repair of the house, in which Judge Jeffreys is thought to have stayed during the Bloody Assize, was completed in 2014 and officially opened by HRH the Duke of Gloucester.
The Bishop's Barn, Wells
This 15th century tithe barn was given to the city 130 years ago for use by citizens. However, the ancient building is desperately in need of some restoration work and updating.
​
As a first step a study is being carried out to improve the sound proofing and provide an effective heating system that would encourage greater use of the building particularly in winter months.
​
We are working with our partners, including Mendip District Council, community and user groups, and will be submitting a bid for Heritage Lottery funding.