Project Summary: Restoration of the Angel Inn Hotel and Adjacent Buildings
Following a devastating fire that destroyed the Angel Inn Hotel and surrounding businesses in Midhurst, urgent intervention was required to address significant structural damage. The fire left the buildings unstable and posed a risk of collapse, necessitating immediate safety measures and road closures. North Road, the primary route through Midhurst, was closed, forcing residents and emergency services to take a disruptive 13-mile detour. Nearby homes were evacuated, and public safety became the top priority. The South Downs National Park Authority led the restoration efforts, focusing on preserving the historical character of the fire-damaged site while ensuring public safety and minimizing disruption.
Key Challenges and Objectives
The project presented several challenges, including the structural instability of the buildings, the closure of a vital road, and the need to balance safety with the preservation of listed architectural elements. The primary objectives were:
- To secure the site and mitigate risks of collapse.
- To preserve as much of the historical façade as possible, in compliance with conservation requirements.
- To reopen North Road promptly and restore normalcy for residents and businesses.
Approach and Solutions
1. Safety Measures and Monitoring:
The site was immediately hoarded off to ensure public safety, and residents were evacuated from nearby homes. A structural monitoring system was installed to detect any movement during the demolition process. Emergency access routes were established to enable 24/7 site operations, allowing work to progress swiftly while ensuring the safety of workers and the public.
2. Facade Support Engineering:
A bespoke scaffolding system was designed in collaboration with structural engineers and scaffolding experts to support the fire-damaged façade. This system provided horizontal and vertical stabilization and was incrementally weighted (kentledged) to maintain balance as work progressed. Additionally, clamps were installed through existing windows to anchor the façade securely.
3. Controlled Demolition:
To preserve the façade while addressing structural instability, high-risk elements were carefully removed by hand using a mobile crane and safety basket. This meticulous process minimized the risk of further damage or uncontrolled collapse. Debris was managed and stored on-site to maintain a controlled workspace and prevent hazards.
4. Road Reopening and Traffic Management:
Once the façade was stabilized and the site was secured, efforts focused on reopening North Road. Protective hoardings, clear signage, and traffic management systems were implemented in collaboration with the local highways department. This ensured compliance with the Highways Act and facilitated safe passage for vehicles and pedestrians.
Project Outcome
The project successfully preserved all listed structural elements of the Angel Inn and adjacent buildings, meeting the standards set by conservation and listings officers. Through strategic planning, collaboration with experts, and innovative engineering, the historical façades were saved, safeguarding the architectural heritage of Midhurst.
Additionally, North Road was reopened safely and efficiently, alleviating the disruption caused by the detour. The project not only protected the town’s cultural heritage but also restored a sense of normalcy for residents and businesses, highlighting the value of careful, community-focused restoration efforts.
