The first phase of deconstruction works at Rayners Penn has now reached successful completion. Undertaken by Balicrest, the programme was carried out to schedule, with the site remaining consistently tidy, well-organised, and managed to the highest standards.
This stage included the removal of the 1960s extension — a structure directly connected to the main house. While much of the demolition was undertaken using conventional methods, careful hand deconstruction was employed where the extension met the historic fabric to ensure retained elements of the original building were preserved. Works also encompassed dismantling the 1960s headteacher’s house, the hand deconstruction of the front wall in preparation for its future reconstruction, the removal of selected non-listed buildings, the excavation of the boating lake, and the creation of a temporary entrance on Church Road.
A significant achievement of Phase One has been the project’s commitment to sustainable practice. An estimated 95% of materials were recycled: stock bricks were preserved for future reinstatement, while other masonry was crushed for re-use on site. Every step of the process adhered to stringent heritage and ecological considerations, ensuring that progress was achieved without compromise to the estate’s character or environment.
With Phase One now complete, Rayners Penn has entered the process of appointing a contractor for the next stage of works — marking the transition from careful deconstruction towards the next chapter in the estate’s restoration.