Abbey Quarter
Old and new in the Abbey Quarter- the Abbey dormitory and The Blade
Reading Borough Council is developing an exciting plan to transform Reading's Abbey precinct into a unique historical and cultural destination. The Abbey Quarter plans will pull together a number of important historic sites, buildings and structures, under a single, co-ordinated approach. You can download the latest project update at the bottom of this page. There is also a feedback form that you can complete and email to us. You can also follow us on our Abbey Quarter facebook page.
Many of Quarter's historic features are recognised as having national and local importance being designated as Scheduled Ancient Monuments and Listed Buildings. Reading Museum's significant collections relating to the Abbey and Huntley & Palmers are of international importance and both reflect Reading's long history of global links.
The project includes improved signage and better interpretation across the whole area as well as the conservation of key historic features including the Abbey Ruins, Abbey Gateway and St Laurence’s churchyard wall. There are plans to redisplay the ground floor of the Museum to tell the story of the Quarter in the context of the town’s wider history. The project will include training and apprenticeship opportunities, community events and activities.
The project to conserve the Abbey was initiated after public access to the ruins was closed in summer 2009 after a condition survey highlighted the ‘poor and rapidly deteriorating condition of the walls’. Survey work has recently been carried out by specialist building surveyors taking high-tech images of the ruins. Following a study of these 3D scans, architects have created a detailed picture map of each area to help identify the extent of the conservation required. They are also reviewing the work required on other areas including the Abbey Gateway.
You can also view a short podcast about the Abbey on the Museum's Youtube Channel.
Date updated: 10 May 2012
Related Websites:
Reading Abbey podcast |
http://youtu.be/54neMsRDurM |
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