New-look entrance planned for Delapré Abbey site

Delapré Abbey is set to open early next year and the small lodge building at the entrance to its drive, on London Road, is falling into disrepair.

The council is in the process of cutting back trees which are encroaching on the building and contractors will then scaffold the building ready for work to take place.

This will include repairs to walls and reinstatement of the lodge’s roof which have gradually degraded over time.

In addition, in order to improve security for the newly-restored Abbey, gates are being installed at the western end of the driveway into the site.

These will be open to vehicles throughout the day while the Abbey is open for business, then closed to prevent inappropriate access at night. Pedestrians including dog walkers will continue to be able to access the site at all times.

Cllr Tim Hadland, the Borough Council’s Cabinet member for regeneration, enterprise and planning, said: “This work will help improve the approach to Delapré Abbey while making the site more secure.

“A use has not yet been agreed for the lodge but it is vital that we protect the fabric of that building while those discussions continue.

“We’ve restored significant parts of this building and we need to make sure that investment is protected so the whole community can enjoy their new heritage asset.

“The need for security is clear following previous incidences of vandalism and anti-social behaviour and we’ve done our best to ensure access remains available for as many people as possible.

“Of course, we’ve made sure that those who enjoy a walk around the grounds can continue to do so at all times, though they will need to consider alterative parking arrangements should they arrive by car outside the Abbey’s opening hours.”

The Delapré Park Management Committee, Far Cotton Residents’ Association and residents in the area have been consulted over the gate plans. Independent security advice was also sought on the best way to ensure the Abbey’s protection.

Visitors needing to leave the site after hours will still be able to do so and emergency vehicles will retain access at all times.

Delapré Abbey has been restored with the help of a £3.65 million Heritage Lottery Fund grant and has some glorious interiors awaiting the public when it opens next year.

In the meantime, it is already hosting weddings, meetings and conferences and has an atmospheric Conservatory Café and Billiard Room serving food and drink.

Work is ongoing on the installation of a new car park. This work will be followed by the renovation of the existing car park which requires better organisation and a new surface.

Also, two new gates have been installed on the approach to the Abbey buildings in order to protect visitors on foot.

The vehicle sections of these two gates will remain closed to all but delivery vehicles, wedding cars and essential services and the pedestrian sections will be open during the Abbey’s operating hours.