Expression of Interest for Theory and Practice of Historic Building Conservation Training

We are seeking expression of interest from course providers who would be interested in delivering a course covering Theory and Practise of Historic Building Conservation.
Why we are seeking expressions of interest: The Prescot Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) is a five-year heritage-led regeneration project focussed on Prescot Town Centre. The THI is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Knowsley Council with other local partners. One of the many aims of the THI is to improve local people’s knowledge and skills when it comes to maintaining, repairing or making changes to historic buildings. This course would be free to attend and open to all, including building owners, premises or site managers, built environment professionals (architects, building surveyors, planners, conservation officers, regeneration officers) or building contractors or subcontractors involved in any aspect of the building trade. The training would have to take place in Prescot to attract attendees from the local area, plus it would allow the training to include a visit to live or past THI building repair and restoration projects to see the taught elements of the course in action, and perhaps provide hands-on experience of traditional building skills. The course should give a broad overview of the key aspects of managing, maintaining, repairing or making changes to historic buildings.

Type of Course: Theory and Practice of Historic Building Conservation

Purpose of Course: to enhance practical and theoretical knowledge of people who own, manage, maintain or alter historic (pre-1919) buildings.

Number of delegates: 30

Proposed Attendees: people who own or manage historic buildings, built environment professionals, building contractors and subcontractors

Course length: 3-4 working days

Course date: In any of March, April, May, June, September or October 2017

Course Delivery: combination of lectures / talks / presentations and practical demonstrations

Course location: Prescot, Knowsley, Merseyside (precise venue TBC)

Suggested Course Content:

- Overview of Conservation Philosophy / Theory
- Overview of policies and law concerning historic buildings
- How traditionally constructed buildings perform differently to modern constructions
- Damp and damp control
- Principal traditional building materials (e.g. lime, brick, stone, timber, iron / steel, glass)
- Practical demonstration
- Site visit to a Prescot THI building or buildings

Exclusions: Venue hire, catering