Conservation works included brickwork repointing, the preparation and repainting of ironwork, and various types of stonework repair and replacement — new carved limestone apex blocks and finials, the consolidation of stone detailing and the stabilization of corbels.

The apex blocks and finials had been replaced in the 1950s with totally different designs to the originals, so could not be used for restoration work. We reconstructed their forms by examining an 1878 photograph by Charles Nettleton under a microscope. Original stone bosses and other element do survive, and these provided a guide to the original style of carving.

Lovell Chen has had a long association with St Michael’s. Back in 1999, we designed its non-denominational chapel, Mingary. Much more recently, we prepared further condition reports on the church’s roof and made recommendations on the implementation of works for its maintenance.