West Country Blacksmiths, based at Allerford Forge, near Minehead, has completed a large-scale bespoke metalwork project at the Grade II* listed Crystal Palace subway as part of a £2.8-million restoration completed in partnership with Historic England.
Opened in 1865, Crystal Palace subway is a beautifully designed and crafted relic of Victorian construction. Hidden under the Crystal Palace Parade it was built to provide access to Crystal Palace.
The craftsmen from West Country Blacksmiths were asked to design and make nearline 200 meters of handrails, four double entrance gates and seven electrical cupboard door hatches.
Over a period of three months, the blacksmith travelled to London to install the metalwork, which was all produced in their picturesque National Trust-owned forge.
Kieren Roberts, director of West Country Blacksmiths, said: “It was a pleasure to work at this amazing place, a really hidden masterpiece. We are really pleased to have played our part in its restoration.
“This project allowed us to show the diverse skills we have within our talented team include 3D site surveying, CAD designing, forge and fabrication work in both steel and stainless steel and our onsite capabilities. I would like to take the opportunity to thank our dedicated and hardworking team for all their efforts on this project.”
While continuing to produce works for our local community, the team is also building a growing reputation nationally adding Crystal Palace to a portfolio of projects which includes Kensington Palace, The Palace Theatre, The Wellcome Trust, Pencarrow House and many other national landmarks.
The craftsmen continue to be busy with their current projects including a staircase for a property on the Isle of Scilly, The Royal History Museum, Mawley Hall and three pairs of gates being made for a property in Australia.
Kieren added: “We are proud to have the opportunity to work on some large projects, we need this to keep our 10 strong team of local craftsmen busy, but our heart and the majority of our work continue to be for and will always be or the local community. From minor repair and restoration to any metalwork project from handrail to large scale restoration or architectural projects.”
To learn more about West Country Blacksmiths visit www.wescountryblacksmiths.co.uk.
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