St Mary De Haura, New Shoreham

The church of St Mary de Haura dates from 1103. Built in Romanesque and transitional styles, it can justifiably be regarded as one of the most beautiful and architecturally important churches in Sussex.

In 1991 the choir vault was lime washed, it soon became apparent that the lime wash was not adhering to the vault due to the high level of sea salt in the vault masonry.

CWO carried out the work to re-instate the roof of the vault. New chalk was obtained from Duncton Quarry Nr Petworth. These were sized and fitted into the roof space.

The work was achieved by a man lying upside down on the timber framework. The chalk surface was dressed by hand to an even shape and pointed in mortar to match the colour of the chalk.

Client:                                   St Mary De Haura Church
Main Contractor:               CWO Ltd
Architect:                            Carden & Godfrey
Quantity Surveyor:            Babtie Murdock Green
Consultant Engineers:     Price Myres
Value:                                   £130,000

Award Winner

St Mary De Haura won the top award in the Traditional Skills category at the Sussex Heritage Awards 2003.