Midlands Region | Attingham Consultancy Hub
DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT
FOR
Structural Repairs
AT
Vales Rock, Kingsford Park, Kidderminster
February 2021
CONTENTS
1.0 Introduction 2.0 Heritage Statement (By Edmund Simons) 3.0 Assessment of impact of works 4.0 Ecological Impact
Appendix A Photos Appendix B Structural Engineers Report Appendix C Specification for Works
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Vales rock is situated within Kingsford Country Park, Near Kidderminster. The co-ordinates for the Rock House are 382721 ; 282122. Access to the Rock House is from the National Trust’s car park, post code DY11 5SL on Kingsford Lane. The Rock House is then a short walk via a gravel track. The Rock House area is fenced off for public safety, with a locked gate for access for NT staff only. Site visits therefore require prior arrangement. The Rock House can be viewed at a distance from the paths surrounding it.
The condition of the Rock House has deteriorated, and structural repairs are necessary to stabilise it and to protect any further rock fall. Photos of the condition of the Rock House are included in Appendix A. The objective of the work is to stabilise the current formation, not provide any alterations at this stage.
KeyGS Engineering have surveyed the Rock House and prepared recommendations for the repair and stabilisation, these include construction of masonry (red engineering brick) columns in archways that require support, insertion of a concrete lintol into existing brickwork to provide support, insertion of stainless steel rock bolts with approx. 130x130cm faceplates, de-scaling of the rock cliff face, and repairs to the well grate. Further details are provided in the KeyGS report in Appendix B and schedule of works in Appendix C.
2.0 HERITAGE STATEMENT
The following Heritage Statement has been prepared by Mr Edmund Simons.
VALE’S ROCK WOLVERLEY, WORCESTERSHIRE STABLISATION OF ROCK HOUSES HERITAGE STATEMENT FEBRUARY 2012 ER Simons Mst, AIFA, IHBC, FSA TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION ...... 3
2. DESCRIPTION ...... 3
2.1 Heritage Assets ...... 3 2.2 Lower Terrace ...... 3 2.3 Upper Terrace ...... 5
3. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND ...... 6
4. SIGNIFICANCE ...... 8
5. PROPSALS ...... 9
6. ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS ...... 9
7. CONCLUSIONS ...... 10
APPENDIX A, BIBLIOGRAPHY ...... 11
APPENDIX B, LISTING DESCRIPTION ...... 12
©E Simons 2021 The report and the site assessments carried out on behalf of the client in accordance with the agreed terms of contract and/or written agreement form the agreed Services. The Services were performed with the skill and care ordinarily exercised by a reasonable Heritage Consultant at the time the Services were performed. Further, and in particular, the Services were performed by taking into account the limits of the scope of works required by the client, the time scale involved and the resources, including financial and manpower resources, agreed between with the client. Other than that expressly contained in the paragraph above, E Simons provides no other representation or warranty whether express or implied, in relation to the services. This report is produced exclusively for the purposes of the client. E Simons not aware of any interest of or reliance by any party other than the client in or on the services. Unless expressly provided in writing, E Simons does not authorise, consent or condone any party other than the client relying upon the services provided. Any reliance on the services or any part of the services by any party other than the client is made wholly at that party’s own and sole risk and E Simons disclaims any liability to such parties. This report is based on site conditions, regulatory or other legal provisions, technology or economic conditions at the time of the Service provision. These conditions can change with time and reliance on the findings of the Services under changing conditions should be reviewed. E Simons accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of third-party data used in this report. Summary
Vales Rock is a Grade II listed rock-cut dwelling on Blakeshall Common (Wolverley). It consists of four cave dwellings which date from the Middle Ages to the 1770s and were altered and inhabited until the 1950s. The dwellings have suffered from extensive and concerted vandalism as well as a number of rock falls. The National Trust proposes to consolidate the site with limited intervention, including rebuilding supporting walls and the addition of rock bolts to prevent future falls.
This report examines the extent and significance of the site and finds that the proposals are modest in scope, but will secure the future of the site are appropriate and much needed.
1. INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this statement is to examine the heritage impacts of a proposal to stabilise the Grade II rock houses at Vales Rock, Wolverley, Worcestershire (HER: WSM05444). The report describes heritage assets which may be affected by the development and assesses the impact the proposals would have upon the significance of these assets.
The report has been completed by Edmund Simons MSt (Oxford) AIFA, IHBC, FRGS, FSA on behalf of the National Trust.
2. DESCRIPTION 2.1 Heritage Assets
Several undesignated heritage assets have been identified in the near vicinity, including field systems, boundary banks and a semi rock-cut house site, it was determined however, that these will not be impacted by the stabilisation works and they are not assessed in this report. The only asset impacted by the works will be to the Grade II listed cave houses and the surrounding rock face. The room numbers used in this report are the same as in the Key GS Engineering Report (2019). 2.2 Lower Terrace
Collapsed houses
At the north end of the terrace the buried remnants of at least three caves may be glimpsed, these were destroyed during a collapse in the 1930s, the debris of which still buries part of the site.
Room1
A natural rock shelter fronted by a 19th century brick wall. The features cut into the earlier wall include two niches and a number of joist holes
Room2
Part of the rock shelter and with a 19th century brick outer wall. The room has a number of deep irregular niches, one of these niches is unfinished and the widely spaced chisel marks are still visible. The niches and the wall retain fragile paint surfaces on a very thin coat of whitewash. This includes a very fragmentary and fragile painted scheme with designs in black and ochre on a white background, this is topped with a later pink ochre wash and later layers of whitewash.
3
Vales Rock, Wolverley Heritage Statement
Room3
A collapse in the 1960s severely damaged this room and the boulders from the former roof lie where they fell. There are niches and the remnants of internal walls which were destroyed by the fall and later vandalism. Again there are small areas of very fragile panted surfaces.
Room4
This deeper open-fronted room includes a pronounced step or shelf. It was accessed from Room 3 via a door which was blocked with 19th century brick, A short tunnel connects Room 4 with Room 5.
Detached Brick Kitchen
A former kitchen lies to the west of Room 4 (which formed its eastern end). This building has suffered greatly from vandalism in the last 20 years, but contains historic features, including a brick flue and the remnants of a door. The building is made of later 19th century brick, but sits on a foundation of sandstone blocks, which appear to be the remnants of an earlier building.
Room5
This large room (and the neighbouring room 6) are part of a house which has recently been heavily vandalised. The house has distinctive semi-circular drip gullies carved over its door and windows, a feature seen elsewhere locally.
The room is accessed from the terrace by a door and from Room 4 by a short tunnel. This tunnel has been reopened by vandals and was formally blocked with a sandstone wall and historically used as a large pantry,. There is a window to the terrace which recently has been partly sawn away.
The room has a large “inglenook” type fireplace at the north end, the back of which has been smashed by vandals. There is an inserted brick oven on the eastern cheek of the fireplace (made of what appears to be 18th century brick). The chimney is semi rectangular with a large excavated hood area below. The east wall has a number of socket holes and a large niche for a cupboard or similar.
Room 6
An irregular room with a thin dividing wall to Room 5 (much damaged), it is lit by a single window to the terrace. There is no evidence of how the room is heated.
Room 7
Rooms 7 and 8 form a single habitable unit and are not linked to the rest of the complex, in the later history of the site they were used as storage and the author remembers them being full of beasom making materials from the last owner. The rooms are more fragmentary and more crude than the neighbouring house.
Room 7 is s small irregular room accessed by a door to the terrace and with a round “window” created by damage in the 1980s to an earlier exterior niche.
Room 8
Room 8 is a small room, again irregular and with sockets and slots for vanished features. There is a door to the terrace, but part of the exterior wall has been removed. A fragmentary fireplace lies near the door and has a small circular flue to the terrace above. The fireplace has been cut away and altered and may have contained a stove with flue above. Part of a semi-circular base and a slot for a possible smoke hood may indicate an early origin.
4
Vales Rock, Wolverley Heritage Statement
Fireplace in Room 5, showing where the rear wall has been destroyed in recent vandalism.
2.3 Upper Terrace
The Upper terrace is made up of a three roomed house cut into the back of a natural terrace. The northern part of the terrace survives as a natural rock shelter. The house formally had windows with drip gullies carved above as seen on the lower terrace and a number of other local examples.
Room 9
This is numbered as one room, but, is two rooms and a pantry, the thin sandstone partition wall has been removed in the last 20 years. The south room was heated by a small fireplace on the west wall which vented by a flue onto the cliff above. The central room had a 19th century fireplace with a shared flue with room 10, this has now been largely destroyed. The east wall has a large niche and small sockets.
Room 10
This room had a shared fireplace with the adjacent room 9 (recently destroyed). It has a single window to the terrace.
Terrace
This terrace is a natural rock shelter and in the 20th century housed a large timber building, this is visible on a number of historic postcards and remnants of it could be seen in the 1980s. The large limestone block was formally used as a base for a chopping block.
5
Vales Rock, Wolverley Heritage Statement
Room 9, showing the destroyed window pillars and the lost dividing wall.
3. HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
Vales Rock (or more accurately Crow’s Rock) is fist mentioned in a charter of 964 as ”Cynfar’s Stone” (Hooke 1990) and forms part of the boundary between Kinver and Cookley, along with a substantial boundary bank (which survives running to the north of the site). It is shown on historic maps (including the tithe of 1839), but these do not show all dwellings.
There is no history of occupation before the 19th century, but this does not mean that there was no activity (see below) and forthcoming work by the author (Simons forthcoming) demonstrates an early origin for a number of similar sites locally and nationally.
The date 1770 was formally to be seen on the upper rock house (Gilley 1991) and this date corresponds with similar houses in the area. The 1770s see a crisis locally in housing and rock-cut dwellings are excavated or modified at this time with the last ones being excavated in the 1850s. In the 19th and 20th century the houses were occupied by several families. Census returns show the men working as agricultural labourers, or in the Stour iron industry and the women as labourers or in textiles.
It was an outlier of the Kinver tourist industry and in the 20th century teas were served to visitors and postcards were sold. A number of these show views of the top terrace or some show the site from across the heathland. The neatly planed orchards around the site with trees with whitewashed trunks are shown on a number of photographs and can still be traced as terraces on the site.
In the 1930s there was a rockfall (which buried the northern caves) and the site was condemned as unsafe for habitation, before being re-inhabited in by Jack Leyland a maker of beasom brooms who lives there until the mid-1950s. In the 1970s it still
6
Vales Rock, Wolverley Heritage Statement
retained its doors and windows and some furniture, but vandalism, rock fall and decay all took a toll on the fabric.
Postcard of c1900, showing lost northern caves (on left of picture)
Postcard of c1900, showing the upper terrace, notice shed on terrace behind and lost window pillars.
7
Vales Rock, Wolverley Heritage Statement
4. SIGNIFICANCE
These unusual buildings are of considerable significance. In a 5km radius of the site there are over 60 rock houses (Simons forthcoming), this is by far the greatest concentration of rock-cut domestic buildings in the British Isles (including Nottingham). Many are in very poor condition and Vale’s is one of the largest groups which is visible at a distance to the public and cared for by a charity.
The significance of the site will be better revealed in the future, by excavation and further analysis of the standing structure. What is clear, is that the four houses (or units) of the site are radically different from each other in character and should not be viewed as belonging to a single phase. The forthcoming study by the author creates a draft typology for understanding rock-houses by looking at 117 sites in Worcestershire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. These include securely dated sites ranging from the 12th to the 19th centuries. Locally over 60 sites have been investigated and compared to the regional typology. Elements of Vale’s (particularly the rock shelter at the north end and Rooms 7 and 8) are almost certainly medieval in origin and were incorporated in a new complex after the site was reoccupied in the 1770s. This is a pattern seen at all the larger sites where new houses are built from c1770-1850 within a complex of much older dwellings.
The irregular niche and a very fragmentary panted wall scheme seen in room 2 are very similar to medieval examples locally at Bridgnorth Hermitage Caves and Redstone Rock. The probable smoke hood and semi-circular heath in room 8 are also only seen in sites with a pre-1600 origin.
The remains of probable early fabric is significant, but the c1770 houses on the upper and lower terrace are also of considerable significance, even in Nottingham rock- houses are not being made at this late date and this is very much a local reaction to a housing shortage which is not seen elsewhere in the UK1.
The significance of the site is threatened by vandalism and the condition of the rock itself, further collapses will reduce significance
1 The largest similar group Outside of Kinver/ Wolverley is in Mansfield (Notts) but these were constructed before c 1650 (see Simons forthcoming).
8
Vales Rock, Wolverley Heritage Statement
Room 2 contains several features which may indicate an early origin.
5. PROPSALS
The proposals are detailed in the Key Geo solutions 2019 report. The work primarily consists of attaching rock bolts to stabilise overhanging areas of rock, the removal of loose rock and the rebuilding in brick (or stone) of windows pillars or small supporting walls which have been destroyed by vandalism, but which are required to support the rock above.
Rooms 3, 4, 5 and 6 will have bolts to support overhanging rock, or room ceilings which have become hollow and may be detached. On the upper terrace, bolts will secure the rock overhang and loose material will be removed.
Internal walls and window pillars will be replaced with appropriate brick or masonry.
6. ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS
The impacts will be beneficial and help secure the significance of the site for the future, any physical or visual impact will be far outweighed by their benefit.
It is recommended that materials used for reinstatement include appropriate bricks or masonry, that matches in colour the lost rock. The National Trust have done this with success at Holy Austin Rock where strong, but colour matched, sandstones where sourced for repairs.
The site has been laser scanned (Trent and Peak Archaeology 2020) and a full photographic and analytic record will be made prior to work. Additional archaeological work may take place in the near future, but this will be outside of the houses themselves.
Works which require removal of loose material (i.e. within the fireplace) should be monitored and recorded.
9
Vales Rock, Wolverley Heritage Statement
7. CONCLUSIONS
The impacts will have a beneficial outcome in that they will protect and secure the future of this very significant, but fragile and vulnerable site. The works have been designed to have a low physical and visual impact and will not harm appreciation or understanding of the site.
10
Vales Rock, Wolverley Heritage Statement
APPENDIX A, BIBLIOGRAPHY
Burn A (2012) Management Plan for Kinver Edge (Ecus ltd)
Gilley, G. (1991) Triassic New Red Sandstone in Wolverley, in Journal of the Wolverley and Cookley Historical Society Number 2
Hooke, D. 1990 Worcestershire Anglo-Saxon Charter Bounds
Simons, E. 2007 Life on the Edge; the Rock Cut Dwellings of Kinver and Wolverley Proceedings of the International Congress on Construction History
Simons E (forthcoming) Draft Typology for Rock-Cut Dwellings in the English Midlands (Wessex Archaeology 2021)
Willis-Bund, J.W. & William Page (editors) (1913), A History of the County of Worcester: Volume 3
Worcester Archaeology and Simons, (2012) Kingsford Forest Park, Archaeological Management Plan
Wolverley Tithe Map and Terrier 1838
Ordnance Survey 25” Map 1883
Ordnance Survey 25” Map 1902
Ordnance Survey 25” Map 1924
Ordnance Survey 25” Map 1938
Ordnance Survey 1:25000 1966
11
Vales Rock, Wolverley Heritage Statement
APPENDIX B, LISTING DESCRIPTION WOLVERLEY & COOKLEY CP VALE'S ROCK SO 88 SW Kingsford 2/147 Rock cut Cottage 20.10.52 - II
House. Probably early C19. Bed rock and brick. Three rooms under sandstone cliff. To left a brick wall containing two segmental headed windows, between which is the entrance, also with segmental head. Hole for metal flue to right- hand side. Wall to right of bed rock has collapsed.
Listing NGR: SO8271382110
12 Revision: RW 02/07/19 Jul '19 Jul DRAFT Nova House Nova Newport 7DW TF10 Shropshire 01952822960 Tel: [email protected] E-mail: Web: www.keygs.com Audley Avenue Audley ntroller of HMSO. ntroller Date: Status: st not be copied or copied be not st ns Ltd. X Construct Pillar A3 8 Vales Vales Rock Checked: Size: Sheet Original
19-229-D-001 01 m
Middle Level and Lower 3 Room Number Room Approximate Locations of Rockbolts Locations Approximate RW SR NTS First Issue First Revision Detail Revision Drawn Date 8 X Key GeoSolutions Ltd GeoSolutions Key 01 Based upon Ordnance Survey Mapping with permission of co with permission Mapping Survey Ordnance upon Based mu 100045347.no. drawing This license copyright Crown GeoSolutio from consent written Key without reproduced Rev. Drawn: Scale: No. Drawing CLIENT: PROJECT: TITLE: NOTES
7
m X 3 Re-instate Pillar Re-instate 6 X X Pillar collapsed re-instate Re-instate external Re-instate brick arch X 5 X X Build up Build wall up chimney beneath X X X 4
X
m 2 X X 3 XX Re-instate collapsed Re-instate pillar/wall X 2 1 LEGEND
8 Room Number
X Approximate Locations of Rockbolts
3m
10 9
X X X Overhanging area 01 First Issue RW 02/07/19
Rev. Revision Detail Drawn Date
Based upon Ordnance Survey Mapping with permission of controller of HMSO. Crown copyright license no. 100045347. This drawing must not be copied or reproduced without written consent from Key GeoSolutions Ltd. CLIENT: Brick up windows PROJECT: of arch Vales Rock
TITLE:
Upper Level
Drawn: Checked: Date: RW SR Jul '19 Scale: Original Sheet Size: Status: NTS A3 DRAFT Drawing No. Revision: 19-229-D-002 01
Nova House Audley Avenue Newport Shropshire TF10 7DW
Tel: 01952 822960 E-mail: [email protected] Key GeoSolutions Ltd Web: www.keygs.com Worcestershire Archive and Archaeology Service
Monument Full Report Report prepared by Worcestershire HER. Tel 01905 845618 or email [email protected]. Information valid for three months from date of production. 02/03/2021 HER Number Site Name Record Type WSM05444 Rock Cottage, Vales Rock, Kingsford, Wolverley Monument Monument Types and Dates CAVE (Unknown date) Evidence STRUCTURE ROCK CUT DWELLING (Unknown date) Evidence STRUCTURE
Description Habitation cut out of rock face. [1]
A curious feature of Wolverley are the rock dwellings scattered over the parish, of which the most picturesqure are at Blakeshall & Drakelow. Cut in the side of the sandstone hill, some of these primitive dwellings are dry & warm, others owing to the porous nature of the rock, become v wet, especially in winter. [2]
Inhabited until the 1960s. [3]
Vale's (or Crows) rock is a complex of cave houses set into a large sandstone outcrop. There are three distinct terraces. The lower terrace consists of a number of shallow irregular caves most probably used for storage. The middle set of houses is the largest with at least three separate dwellings. The northern set is not strictly a cave house but is a natural overhang which has been enhanced with the addition of a brick wall. The upper terrace is one individual dwelling unit. On the ledge in front of this is the site of a wooden building which sat within a rock overhang. [4] [5] [6] Sources (1) List: 3.1956. Kidderminster RD 4-14. DoE. SWR2799 (2) Bibliographic reference: Page, W. 1913. A History of the County of Worcester: SWR2428 Volume III. Victoria County History. p568 (3*) Newspaper cutting: Worcester Evening News. 1983. 'High-rise 'snip' for down-to- SWR6805 earth". Worcester Evening News. (4*) Digital archive: Simonds, E. 2006. Kinver Edge Spreadsheet. Not Known. Site 59 SWR352 (5*) Map: Simonds, E. 2006. Kinver Edge: Map Overlay on SO88SW 1:10 000. Not SWR354 Known. Site 59 (6*) Digital archive: Noke, M.. 2007. GIS Polygon Theme Derived From Rectified Images SWR4206 of Kinver Overlay. WHEAS. Site 59
Location National Grid Reference SO 8274 8211 Sheet No.SO88SW Administrative Areas Civil Parish Wolverley and Cookley, Wyre Forest, Worcestershire
Associated Designations
SHINE Rock Cottages and Earthworks of Field Active DWR14437 System, Vales Rock, Wolverley and Cookley
Associated Historic Landscape Character Records - None Recorded
Related Monuments - None Recorded Report generated by HBSMR from exeGesIS SDM Ltd Page 1 Report prepared by Worcestershire HER. Tel HER Number WSM05444 01905 845618 or email [email protected]. Information valid for three months from date of production.
Finds recorded in associated Event records
Associated Events/Activities Historic Environment Countryside Advice Visit to Kingsford Forest Park (Desk Based Assessment. Ref: WSM39033) Landscape Survey, Kingsford Country Park, Wolverley and Cookley (Event - Survey. Ref: WSM46688)
Report generated by HBSMR from exeGesIS SDM Ltd Page 2
3.0 ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPACT OF THE WORKS
The impact of the work on the Rock House is minimal, the introduction of new masonry columns is necessary to support the current archways where the widths are deemed too wide for self support, and where the existing columns are damaged. This proposal was chosen so as to retain the original arch openings in their current form, but provide them with support against collapse. The choice of red engineering brick is to match as closely with the original red sandstone and red brick construction of the Rock House.
The insertion of the stainless steel rock bolts is to stabilise the layers of sandstone forming the ceilings of the rooms in the Rock House, again to prevent collapse or destabilisation. Once inserted the only part of the rock bolts that can be seen are the 130x130cm steel plates. The concrete lintol is to support existing brickwork that has been constructed with no bearing support, and again this will provide the structure with more support to safeguard it from potential collapse. The existing well grate requires welding repairs, but will stay in its current form/design.
The intention of the work is to stabilise the structure, prevent any further rock fall, and protect it in its current form using materials as close a match to the original construction. It is not intended to provide public access to the Rock House once works are complete for the current time for H&S reasons, however, vegetation removal works are planned to the area surrounding the Rock House so that better views of it can be taken from vantage points on the surrounding paths and bridle paths.
4.0 ECOLOGICAL IMPACT
The following Ecological Impact Assessment has been prepared by Mr Andrew Perry of National Trust.
Version 2
Ecological assessment for remedial stabilisation works to Vales Rock, Kinver Edge.
Andrew Perry MCIEEM, Ecologist, National Trust Report date: March 2021.
A preliminary ecological assessment was undertaken in respect of proposed works to stabilise the geology and built structures at Vales Rock houses, Kinver Edge. Further survey work in respect of bats is also summarised in Section 3 and Appendix 1. The works will include inserting rock bolts to into the sandstone, building brick piers in some of the arches/openings and inserting a concrete lintel into a section of brickwork. In addition, general maintenance work will be undertaken to remove vegetation that may damage the structure (e.g. young trees). Photographs are provided at Section 4.
1. Background Data
1.1. A review of background data held by the National Trust was undertaken, including previous biological survey reports and a database of species records. No records of protected or notable species were found relating specifically to Vales Rock. Previous bat recording at Kinver Edge has identified minor foraging activity within the cave- like rooms at Vales Rock houses, but no roosts or roosting activity was observed (E Chapman 2021, pers. comm., 3rd February).
2. Initial Site Survey
2.1. A site survey was undertaken by the author on 03/02/2021 to assess the potential for any protected or notable habitats or species at Vales Rock houses.
2.2. The exterior of the rock houses have a moderate cover of vegetation (Figure 1) including young birch Betula pendula, oak Quercus robur and Scot’s pine Pinus sylvestris which will be removed (and the stumps chemically treated) as part of general maintenance of the rock houses. This work is planned to take place before March, avoiding the bird nesting season. Other vegetation includes ivy Hedera helix, Bracken Pteridium aquilinum, bramble Rubus fruticosus, common heather Calluna vulgaris, wavy hair-grass Deschampsia flexuosa and broad buckler-fern Dryopteris dilatata. It is proposed that only the trees are removed from the structure. The diversity of bryophytes and lichens appears to be poor (possibly due to the acidic nature of the rock), albeit a detailed survey of lower plants and lichens was not undertaken. It is understood that remedial works and maintenance will not involve cleaning the rock surface of lichens etc.
2.3. There was no clear evidence of bird nesting within the structure, however, some twigs were found at the base of a chimney but it was unclear if this was from a former nest in the chimney or an attempt at building a fire (anti-social behaviour is reportedly common here).
Page 1 of 7 Ecological assessment for remedial stabilisation works to Vales Rock, Kinver Edge v2
2.4. With regard to bats, three potential roosting features (PRFs) were identified where use by bats could not be ruled out from an exterior inspection; these are described further below. I have used the room numbers from the geological report undertaken by Key Geosolutions in 2019. In general, the ‘rooms’ are exposed to light and draft (Figure 2) and subject to human disturbance. No significant dark voids were identified (other than the PRFs described below) and overall, the potential for roosting bats is a lot more limited than may be expected from such a structure.
PRF 1
2.5. There is an enclosed brick chimney in the corner of the Room 1 (Figure 3). Full inspection inside the chimney was not possible on the survey. The top of the chimney exits through a brick wall at the side of the cave (Figure 4). It may be possible that conditions inside the chimney are sufficiently sheltered for roosting bats, although they would likely be exposed to draft from the chimney top. No evidence of bats such as droppings at the base of the chimney was found.
PRF 2
2.6. There are visible crevices between the brick wall at north-west end of Room 2 and the sandstone ceiling (Figure 5). It was not possible to inspect these from the ground and rule out use by bats. No evidence of bats such as droppings or staining from urine or fur oil was seen using binoculars from the ground.
PRF 3
2.7. There is a small cavity in a rock fissure in the ceiling of Room 3, near where the ceiling meets the south-eastern wall (Figure 6 – an arrow is used to indicate the entrance of the cavity which is not clear on the photograph). The cavity is of sufficient size and depth to accommodate crevice-dwelling species of bat; further inspection with an endoscope would be required to fully survey this feature. No evidence of bats such as droppings or staining from urine or fur oil was found.
3. Bat Survey
3.1. With regard to the PRFs identified above, further survey work was undertaken by Rob Thorne, a licenced bat worker for Churton Ecology, on 04/03/2021. The survey findings are included at Appendix 1. To summarise:
• A ladder inspection found the chimney flue to be unsuitable for roosting bats and nesting birds in its present condition; • No evidence of roosting bats was found in the other PRFs and closer inspection found limited suitability for roosting bats; • There was no evidence or obvious potential for hibernating bats; Ecological assessment for remedial stabilisation works to Vales Rock, Kinver Edge v2
• As all PRFs could be adequately inspected, further emerge/re-entry survey was considered unnecessary, but as a precautionary measure, the identified PRFs should be re-inspected immediately prior to any works commencing.
4. Recommendations and Conclusions
4.1. Scrub removal from the feature is part of the general maintenance at Vales Rock and is carried out outside of the bird nesting season. If such works continue into the bird nesting season (March – August inclusive) checks for nesting birds should be undertaken by an ecologist or suitably experienced person. Given the nature of the vegetation, it should be relatively easy to identify any nests.
4.2. As per the bat survey recommendations, the potential bat roost features identified in Section 2 should be re-inspected by a licenced bat worker/ecologist immediately prior to any works commencing . This will likely require the use of an endoscope, ladders, torch and mirrors, to ensure that the identified PRFs have not been occupied by bats.
4.3. In the unlikely event that roosting bats are encountered, then works must cease immediately and a licenced bat worker should be contacted (if not present). In this event, it may be necessary to obtain a European Protected Species Licence, and/or timing constraints might apply works that have the potential to disturb roosting bats through loud noise and vibration
4.4. In conclusion, no overriding ecological constraints were identified to the remedial works at Vales Rock, but precautionary measures have been recommended in respect of bats and birds. No significant ecological impacts are considered likely as a result of the proposals, providing the above recommendations are implemented.
Ecological assessment for remedial stabilisation works to Vales Rock, Kinver Edge v2
5. Photographs
Figure 1
Figure 2 Ecological assessment for remedial stabilisation works to Vales Rock, Kinver Edge v2
Figure 3
Figure 4
Ecological assessment for remedial stabilisation works to Vales Rock, Kinver Edge v2
Figure 5
Figure 6 Ecological assessment for remedial stabilisation works to Vales Rock, Kinver Edge v2
Appendix 1: Bat Survey Findings Perry, Andrew
From: Rob Thorne Sent: 04 March 2021 13:43 To: Cc: Subject: RE: Vales Rock - Bat survey
Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Flagged
Caution, this email originates outside of National Trust.
I managed to carry out a ladder top inspection of all the potential roost features noted by Andrew Perry in his preliminary inspection ‐ this was undertaken on 04/03/21 under licence. The chimney is blocked with sandstone rubble at the top and old Jackdaw nesting material below, which extends to just above ground level. Consequently the flue is considered unsuitable for roosting bats and nesting bats. The other crevices noted between the brick and sandstone abutments are either too shallow or extend to depths of between just one and two inches with no hidden offshoots ‐ these are all horizontal with flat, upwards facing cavity bases i.e. it is likely that some droppings would be retained within the crevice if these were occupied by bats during the active months for any significant period of time. There was no evidence of hibernating bats and no obvious potential for these due to the exposed nature of the (shallow) caves.
Since all the crevices can be adequately inspected there would be no value in carrying out further dusk emergence/dawn re‐entry surveys to determine the presence/absence of bats during the active (summer) period. Instead I would recommend carrying out a precautionary (re‐)inspection of the features listed above immediately prior to any works commencing, just to make sure that the crevices are not occupied fleetingly by individual bats at that time (which I consider unlikely). A transcript of this e‐mail (and Andrew’s initial report) should provide sufficient enough information to support a LBC application; however, if the council do require anything further I will be happy to contact them at the relevant time.
Many thanks Rob Thorne (Churton Ecology)
1 Appendix A Photos
Appendix A - PHOTOGRAPHS
Vales Rock
Condition of arch openings, note missing/damaged sandstone column
Damage to sandstone columns
Interior of Vales Rock
Unsupported brickwork which requires structural support Appendix B Structural Engineers Report - see separate report Appendix C Specification for Works ESTATE: SOUTH SHROPSHIRE
SITE LOCATION: KINVER VALES ROCK
TITLE: STABILISATION & DE-VEGETATION WORKS
Item £ p
PRICING DOCUMENT STABILISATION & DE-VEGETATION WORKS
GENERAL
CARE OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE
The National Trust is committed to the care and sustainability of the natural environment and its wildlife. It is essential that the greatest possible care be taken at all times to prevent any damage or pollution to the natural environment and its plant and animal wildlife.
NATIONAL TRUST BUILDINGS
Most National Trust buildings are of great architectural, and/or historic importance. This includes their interiors, fittings and collections of art and furniture. This importance derives from a number of subtle fragile characteristics that may be irreplaceable even with the most skilful repair. It is essential that the greatest possible care be taken at all times to prevent any damage to the buildings’ fabric, contents and settings.
PUBLIC ACCESS
Most National Trust properties are open to members of the Trust and to the public. The public’s enjoyment and support of The Trust’s properties is of continuing importance and great care is essential to ensure the enjoyment and safety of all visitors.
NATIONAL TRUST REPAIR PRACTICE
It is essential that the greatest possible care be taken at all times to prevent any damage to the structure and fabric.
C1 Item £ p
GENERAL INFORMATION
This schedule of works is to be used as the pricing document to allow costs to the included for the stabilisation and de-vegetation work as described within the “Engineering Geological Assessment of Vales Rock, Kinver Edge”. The total work comprises of stabilisation of the rock, removal of vegetation from the rock face, using rockbolts to secure the sandstone layers, preliminary scaling works and construction of brick masonry piers and walls.
The Contractor is to ensure all the works carried out comply with the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015.
In all situations specific consideration should be given to the Health & safety of Operatives, NT staff, Volunteers and the General Public.
Where the areas of the works taking place are above or close to entrances or close to areas used by the NT staff, Volunteers and/or the General Public it is IMPORTANT these entrances and areas are protected from projectiles at all times.
The Contractor is responsible for erecting all necessary scaffold and platforms to ensure the works are carried out in a safe manner. All scaffolds should be in-line with the attached NT Scaffolding Guidance.
The Contractor is responsible for making the site safe & secure from unauthorised access.
The Contractor is to ensure the site is left in a safe and satisfactory condition at the end of each working day. All debris is to be cleared on a day to day basis and not left to accumulate.
The Contractor is required to have visited site and be fully acquainted with the extent of the works and to have investigated the site prior to submitting the tender.
No claim by the Contractor as to misinterpretation or misunderstanding of the scope and extent of the contract which could have reasonably been expected to have been resolved by a comprehensive site investigation shall be permitted.
WORKING HOURS
All works are to be carried out during normal working hours 8:30 am – 5:00 pm unless otherwise agreed.
C2 Item £ p
SCHEDULE OF WORKS
The Schedule of Works is to be read in conjunction with the attached “Engineering Geological Assessment of Vales Rock, Kinver Edge” supplied by Key GeoSolutions Ltd and including drawings, sketches and photographs.
It will be expected that the contractor has allowed and included within their Tender figure for all elements stated within the “Engineering Geological Assessment of Vales Rock, Kinver Edge” and items mentioned within this Schedule of Works.
NOTE: where there is any conflict between documents with regard to installation and design the “Engineering Geological Assessment of Vales Rock, Kinver Edge” will take precedent.
ROPE ACCESS & SCAFFOLD
a All rope access works must be carried out by IRATA Certified Technicians’ and full Risk Assessment and Method Statement is to be carried out prior to commencement of any works. The contractor must also allow for all necessary scaffolds for working at height.
b Contractor to allow for all necessary temporary support were required to ensure all the works are carried out and comply with the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015.
GENERAL ACCESS
c Due to the uneven ground leading to the Vales Rock site the contractor should allow within their costs for all necessary access requirements in transporting materials and plant to and from the site
SITE COMPOUND
d The contractor’s compound shall be set up to the position to be agreed with the property staff. All compound areas are to be enclosed using 1.8m high mesh panel fencing (Heras) support blocks, ensuring the support blocks do not create a trip hazards. Any access gates must be locked to secure the site. The compound must be maintained throughout the contract.
ROOM 8
e See report page 2. Allow to construct a 215mm wide brick/masonry pillar be constructed in the centre of the arch to support the sandstone beam. Using Class A Engineering bricks having a compressive strength greater than 125N/mm2 with a water absorbency less than 4.5%. All brickwork to be laid on a 3:1 sand:cement mortar mix.
C3
Item £ p
ROOM 7
a See report page 2. Allow to construct a 330mm wide brick/masonry pillar be constructed within the window to abut the sandstone and support the window roof and entranceway.. Using Class A Engineering bricks having a compressive strength greater than 125N/mm2 with a water absorbency less than 4.5%. All brickwork to be laid on a 3:1 sand:cement mortar mix.
ROOM 6
b See report page(s) 2/3. Supply and install 3nr. 25mm diameter minimum 1m long threaded galvanised steel bars be installed perpendicular to the roof to stabilise this area (northside of discontinuity). The bolts should be fully grouted and capped with similar steel head plates (approximate dimensions 130mm x 130mm).
ROOM 5
c See report page 3. Supply and install 3nr. 25mm diameter minimum 1m long threaded galvanised steel bars; installed perpendicular to the roof to stabilise the area (north side of discontinuity). Bolts to be fully grouted and capped with similar steel head plates (approximate dimensions 130mm x 130mm).
d Allow to install additional Rockbolt in the potentially unstable block situated in the roof of the doorway between Rooms 4 and 5. Bolt to be fully grouted and capped with similar steel head plates (approximate dimensions 130mm x 130mm).
e Allow to construct a 215mm wide brick/masonry pillar be constructed to re- instated entranceway pillar to abut the sandstone and give additional support. Using Class A Engineering bricks having a compressive strength greater than 125N/mm2 with a water absorbency less than 4.5%. All brickwork to be laid on a 3:1 sand:cement mortar mix.
f Allow to re-instate void in wall situated beneath the chimney using Class A Engineering bricks having a compressive strength greater than 125N/mm2 with a water absorbency less than 4.5%. All brickwork to be laid on a 3:1 sand:cement mortar mix.
g Allow to insert 2nr. 100 x 65mm pre-stressed concrete lintels with minimum 150mm end bearing to make safe brickwork of the external arch.
ROOM 4
h See report page 3. Supply and install 3nr. 25mm diameter minimum 2m long threaded galvanised steel bars. Bolts to be fully grouted and capped with similar steel head plates (approximate dimensions 130mm x 130mm).
C4
Item £ p
ROOM 3
a See report page 3. Supply and install 4nr. 25mm diameter minimum 3m long threaded galvanised steel bars be installed perpendicular to the roof to stabilise the roof. Bolts to be fully grouted and capped with similar steel headplates (approximate dimensions 130mm x 130mm).
b Supply and install in the roof behind brick pillar at the entrance to the room 1nr 25mm diameter minimum 2m long threaded galvanised steel bar. To be installed perpendicular to the roof to stabilise the roof. Bolt to be fully grouted and capped with a steel headplate (approximate dimensions 130mm x 130mm). c Allow to construct a 330mm wide brick/masonry pillar be constructed to support the overhanging roof at this location. Using Class A Engineering bricks having a compressive strength greater than 125N/mm2 with a water absorbency less than 4.5%. All brickwork to be laid on a 3:1 sand:cement mortar mix.
COLLAPSE AREA NORTH OF ROOM 1 (LOWER LEVEL)
OVERHANGING ROCK ADJACENT TO COLLASPED AREA AND INCLUDING VERTICAL SLAB AT BACK OF COLLAPSED AREA
d See report page 3. Allow to stabilised with rockbolts as described in the Wardell Armstrong letter report dated 16th April 1992 (see copy within attached report).
UPPER LEVEL EXCAVATIONS
The reader is referred to Drawing No.19-229-D-002 attached for the location of the proposed remedial works.
ROOM 9
e See report page 4. Allow to construct 330mm (1½ brick thick) brick wall to fully infill openings both sides of doorway to support the arch of the and Class A Engineering bricks having a compressive strength greater than 125N/mm2 with a water absorbency less than 4.5%. All brickwork to be laid on a 3:1 sand:cement mortar mix.
f Allow to construct new 215mm thick brick wall to re-instate internal dividing wall using Class A Engineering bricks having a compressive strength greater than 125N/mm2 with a water absorbency less than 4.5%. All brickwork to be laid on a 3:1 sand:cement mortar mix.
g Supply and install perpendicular to the roof to stabilise the potentially unstable overhang / blocks just inside the entrance at the junction of Rooms 9 and 10, 3nr. 25mm diameter minimum 2m long threaded galvanised steel bar. Bolts to be fully grouted and capped with a steel headplate (approximate dimensions 130mm x 130mm).
C5
Item £ p
AREA TO NORTH OF ROOM 10
a Supply and install 3nr. 25mm diameter minimum 3m long threaded galvanised steel bars be installed perpendicular to the roof to stabilise the potentially unstable overhang (including the potentially unstable triangular blocks which appears to be keying in the overhang at present). Bolts to be fully grouted and capped with a steel headplate (approximate dimensions 130mm x 130mm).
CLIFF FACE
b See report page 3. Allow using roped access contractor to de-vegetate the rock face removing all shrubs, bushes and small trees and treat to alleviate any re-growth.
c Allow to carry out a preliminary scaling works as necessary.
WELL
d Straighten out bent defective round bar section and re-weld. Reinforce existing grate using 4nr. 50 x 50 x 15mm galvanised steel angle welded to existing steel framework.
C6
Item £ p
COLLECTION
Page No. C/1
Page No. C/2
Page No. C/3
Page No. C/4
Page No. C/5
Page No. C/6
PART C - SCHEDULE OF WORKS CARRIED TO GENERAL SUMMARY £
C7