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All Saints Church

Client

Parish of Fleet

All Saints Church

Architect

Acanthus Clews Architects

helmet.png
Complete

PQS

SKP3 Ltd

#

Heritage, Ecclesiastical

Refurbishment

Ref:

A0790

Overview

Buxton delivered the restoration and reordering of All Saints’ Church in Fleet, Hampshire, a Grade II* listed building designed by the Victorian architect William Burges. The project has since been recognised with a Civic Trust Award, acknowledging the quality of the conservation approach and the successful balance between heritage and ongoing use. The church suffered catastrophic damage following an arson attack, which destroyed the roof and much of the interior. While the main structure remained, significant elements of the building fabric, internal finishes, and historic features were lost or severely damaged. Our works focused on reinstating the building fabric and returning the church to active use. A new cross-laminated timber roof was constructed to replace the original structure, providing long-term performance while respecting the character of the building. Internally, specialist conservation works were carried out alongside broader restoration. Masonry was cleaned and repaired, decorative schemes reinstated, and surviving historic elements carefully conserved. Cliveden Conservation undertook detailed works including stabilisation of internal brickwork, restoration of painted finishes, and conservation of carved features such as the pulpit and altar rail. A new stained glass rose window, designed by Amanda Winfield of Abinger Stained Glass, forms a focal point within the restored church. The design reflects both the church’s heritage and its community, incorporating references to Fleet Pond and over 100 individually engraved leaves bearing the names of local contributors. Externally, works included restoration of the West Door, construction of a new entrance porch, and the introduction of a paved lay-by to improve access for services and community use. The project followed a clear conservation approach based on minimal intervention, repair over replacement, and respect for original fabric. Where new work was required, it was introduced with restraint and clarity, allowing the building’s history to remain legible. The church has since been reconsecrated and returned to use as a place of worship and community gathering. Judges’ comments described the project as “a thoughtful restoration and reordering that secures the future of a historic church while respecting its past.”
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