Burton Constable Foundation is proud to announce that it has secured a significant £242,000 award from Arts Council England through its highly competitive Museums Estate and Development (MEND) Fund.
This major investment will enable the urgent conservation of the iconic Cupolas at Burton Constable Hall, forming the cornerstone of a wider £350,000 restoration project to protect one of the estate’s most recognisable architectural features.
The Cupolas, which sit atop the East façade, are a defining element of Burton Constable Hall and contribute significantly to the character and historical importance of the wider Grade I and II* listed estate. However, after decades of exposure to the elements, these structures have reached a critical point where specialist intervention is essential to preserve their structural integrity, heritage value, and future.
Funding from the MEND programme will enable a comprehensive package of conservation works to be carried out. This includes vital structural stabilisation, detailed timber restoration, renewal of traditional leadwork, and enhanced weatherproofing measures. Together, these interventions will secure the future of the Cupolas and ensure they continue to stand as a symbol of the Hall’s architectural distinction for generations to come.
Alasdair Hutson, Chief Executive of the Burton Constable Foundation, said: “We are thrilled and extremely grateful for the support from Arts Council England. The Cupolas are an iconic and much-loved part of Burton Constable’s architectural landscape, and this funding allows us to carry out urgent repairs that would otherwise be beyond our resources. The project ensures we can continue to protect and enhance this remarkable estate for visitors, the local community, and future generations. We have ambitious plans to interpret, display and enhance our collections, and making sure the roof is secure and watertight is the first step in making these ambitions a reality.”
Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy said: “I want everyone, everywhere to feel a sense of pride about where they come from. Cultural organisations across Yorkshire and the Humber are important custodians of local identity and play a key role in the story we tell ourselves as a nation.
“Our Arts Everywhere Fund is delivering on our commitment to support cultural assets across the country, increasing access and preserving them for future generations. This is demonstrated by grants announced today that will benefit sixteen culture venues, museums, and library services across Yorkshire and the Humber.
“Arts and culture are the beating hearts of our communities, they have the power to unite us in the face of division and break down barriers to opportunity. We want to harness the power to help us build a brighter future for the people of Yorkshire and the Humber.”
Rebecca Ball, Area Director, North, Arts Council England, said: “Our museums, libraries and arts organisations have the power to change lives, they give us access to new worlds, teach us about our heritage and give us new perspectives on life. I’m so pleased that we’ll be supporting so many of our cultural organisations in the North with this capital investment, which will ensure that they can continue to deliver incredible arts and culture to their communities.”
The MEND programme supports museums and heritage organisations across England to care for their buildings and improve conditions for collections and visitors. This award recognises the importance of Burton Constable Hall and will help ensure the estate can continue to be properly maintained.
Work on the Cupola restoration is expected to begin later this year, with completion scheduled for 2027. The project will safeguard the Cupolas and contribute to the long-term future of the estate.