Incident on Friday exposes seventeenth century timbers to elements, with repairs requiring millions of pounds not currently available.
Substantial damage to a Grade I listed building in Stratford-upon-Avon, once owned by William Shakespeare’s daughter, has been caused by a vehicle incident.
A vehicle reportedly reversed into the building on Friday causing damage to seventeenth century timbers and exposing the oldest parts of the house interior to the elements.
Shakespeare Birthplace Trust operates the building, and said the police have been informed of the incident. The trust is assessing the full extent of the damage in consultation with structural engineers and heritage specialists.
Rachael North, chief executive of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, said: “While we are relieved that no one was injured, we are deeply saddened to see damage to one of Stratford’s most beautiful and historic buildings.
“Our teams responded quickly to stabilise the affected area, and we are now working closely with conservation experts to determine the repairs required.”
North continued: “Every day we face the enormous responsibility of preserving five Grade I and II* listed buildings — the very homes and places that tell Shakespeare’s story. Yet the costs of conservation are increasing rapidly, and the specialist skills required are in short supply.
“Incidents like Friday’s are a stark reminder of how vulnerable our heritage is, and how vital it is that we continue to invest in its protection.”
Other parts of Hall’s Croft were undergoing a conservation programme, funded by US philanthropist and playwright Ken Ludwig,when the incident happened.
The damage caused in Friday’s incident may accelerate the need to move into the next wider phase of conservation, the trust said, which will require several millions of pounds of investment it does not currently have.
The Trust will continue to provide updates as work progresses to stabilise and repair Hall’s Croft.
Those wishing to support the conservation and protection of Hall’s Croft or the other Shakespeare family homes, can make a donation via this link.
Hall’s Croft was the home of William Shakespeare’s daughter, Susanna, and her husband, Dr John Hall, from 1613-1616. The building stands in Old Stratford-upon-Avon, positioned on the corner between Church Street and Old Town.
