During Winter 2022/23 the intention is to make sufficient progress on the building to make it water tight so that it can be fitted out inside. A double layer of waney edged larch is being used to infill the gable ends of the building. Lime mortar mixed with horse hair is being used to screed the laths. The few panels which have already been daubed will be skimmed with lime mortar to provide a uniform finish. Additional volunteers are needed to help with the lime mortar mixing and application. Doors have been made out of reclaimed oak and will be fitted with appropriate hinges and a ‘Roman’ lock.
Forge Roof
The forge roof is leaking and some of the support posts are rotted. We are hoping to salvage the existing roof structure and replace each failing support post in turn. Finally a new waterproof membrane will be fastened to the roof. Work is planned to start early in 2023 and needs to be completed before the school visits begin again in March.
Roman Villa Excavation Area
After storm Eunice destroyed the tented roof structure earlier in 2022 a temporary repair was effected. The supports have been extended and additional rafters provided greater support for the tarpaulin cover. In October this work was completed and a new tarpaulin fitted. This new structure provides a larger area of protected useable space around the excavation area.
