Classic Masonry, a UK specialist in stonemasonry and architectural precast concrete, has secured a contract to carry out restoration work on 16 Barrington Street, a Grade II-listed building in South Shields built in 1882.
The property, once the headquarters of the South Shields Poor Law Union, is set to be part of the relocation of South Tyneside College and South Shields Marine School. Principal contractor Castle is delivering the wider project, which includes a new 161,458.66-square-foot campus on King Street and the renovation and upgrade of the Barrington Street building.
Before the restoration scope was finalized, Classic Masonry was brought in by GSS Architecture to inspect and survey the stonework and brickwork on the listed main elevations. From there, Castle appointed the firm to complete the works, including replacement stone and indents to band and string courses and hood moulds, plus repointing deteriorated mortar joints to brickwork and water tables. The package also includes a full steam clean of the building’s facade.
Castle operations director Chris Meadowcroft said the listed building represents the borough’s industrial past, and that protecting and enhancing the facade is a key part of the project.
Classic Masonry managing director Mike Moody emphasized the need for a “holistic” approach to stone repair and replacement so that interventions do not undermine the existing structure or other necessary work. He also noted the facade’s late Victorian architectural character, including a prominent doorway feature attributed to J H Morton, who designed other local buildings.
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