A proposed new drainage system below ground to ensure that storm water drains away from the gatehouse building reducing the risk of disturbance to the foundations University College, Durham Castle, have been submitted to Durham County Council.
The castle gatehouse is located on the peninsular within the centre of Durham.
The gatehouse was part of the original Norman motte and bailey construction, the site itself and wider settlement has a history which predates William the conqueror’s invasion.
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The Castle currently functions as a university college and is home to 150 students whilst also providing socialising space.
The southwest corner of the gatehouse is showing signs of structural movement following monitoring over the last 12 months.
Investigations revealed a hopper and downpipe that directs the rainwater from the roof below ground, leading to a broken pipe below the ground surface. This excess water dissipated into the ground beneath the corner of the gatehouse and has caused a destabilisation and undermining of the foundations.
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The scope of this proposal is considered to be the optimal solution to ensure that storm water drains effectively away from the gatehouse building reducing the risk of disturbance to the foundations.
The scope of works intends to insert a new inspection chamber, a storm water pipe to connect the downpipe and direct water into an existing combined drainage system.
In conclusion, the recommended repairs will not result in the loss of historic fabric however, it will cause disturbance to the potential evidential finds below ground and therefore a watching brief is recommended.
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