Work to convert Parmoor, a Grade II-listed building at 26 Cambray Place in Cheltenham town centre, has finally resumed after an 11-month delay caused by a neighbouring property’s structural collapse risk.
Leckhampton Builders, contracted by Cheltenham Civic Society, were midway through transforming Parmoor into flats and a new headquarters when concerns arose over the safety of 27 Cambray Place next door. The neighbouring property displayed signs of imminent collapse, forcing an immediate work stoppage to prevent further damage.
The collapse risk at No. 27 was due to an unrelated structural failure, including scaffolding that dangerously leaned against Parmoor. As a result, Leckhampton Builders had to leave the site untouched for nearly a year while safety measures were implemented on the neighbouring building.
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At the time work ceased, crucial repairs to Parmoor’s roof and front parapet wall were underway. Although tarpaulins were used to shield the site, relentless storms and heavy rain infiltrated the building’s front wall down to the basement, damaging timber and water-proofing layers. This exacerbated pre-existing dry rot—originally caused by a hidden leak behind the parapet—allowing it to spread extensively across the affected areas.
Andrew Booton, Chair of Cheltenham Civic Society, expressed the impact of the setback: “Our work has been delayed by over a year, severely affecting our plans. The prolonged halt has postponed the opening of our new headquarters and deprived us of income from the four flats we intended to rent.”
Since regaining access in October, the builders have dried out Parmoor, completed the roof sealing and parapet repairs, and removed compromised materials including timbers and the steel staircase. Comprehensive chemical treatments to eradicate the dry rot are underway.
Booton remains optimistic about progress: “We aim to restore Parmoor to its autumn 2024 condition by Christmas, allowing the conversion work and HQ development to fully restart in the new year.”
Looking ahead to project completion—now anticipated in 2027—Booton envisions Parmoor enhancing Cambray Place’s historic charm. The restored building will feature a 99-seat space, offering a vibrant town centre venue for the Society and other organizations to host meetings and events.