Jack today visited Winterbourne Barn to discuss their future plans after they received a Development Grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund to help it prepare for its future as a Heritage Centre and community asset. The money will be spent on refurbishing the barn and outbuildings to pave the way for a further bid for support enabling the trustees to create a heritage education centre and a year round venue for community events.
Winterbourne Medieval Barn is Grade II* listed. It was built in 1342 having been commissioned by Thomas de Bradeston, who was Lord of the Manor of Winterbourne. It is one of the largest and earliest examples of raised-cruck construction in the country and was designated as a conservation area in 2005.
The long term plans would see a café, toilets and a meeting space established at the site so that events can be held that would see the Barn pay its way in future. At the moment there are restrictions on the type and number of events that can be held due to weather and limited facilities, but the aim is to provide enough scope for more to be held all year round.
'I am very excited about the plans for Winterbourne Barn,' commented Jack. 'It is a fantastic building with a fascinating history and I am delighted the trustees have plans to make it more financially sustainable.'
Sue Parsons, Chairman of Winterbourne Medieval Barn Trust, said 'Winterbourne Medieval Barn Trust is delighted with the award of the HLF Development Grant. It will help us to secure the future of this magnificent building. It will also help us to develop the complex into a valuable community asset.'