We had another trip into the Caves this week, as we work towards re-opening in 2019. Attendees included our volunteer photographer Frank Leppard photography – thanks for the great images Frank! – and paintings conservator Rob Smith, who is looking at how best to look after our extensive wall paintings.
Rob has previously worked on conservation projects for a wealth of organisations including the National Trust and Historic Royal Palaces. He was a finalist in the English Heritage Angel Awards for Best Craftsmanship in 2012 and his work at Painshill Park’s Crystal Grotto has won numerous awards. Our cave paintings are in good hands!
Rob will write us a Conservation Management Plan and, while we plan to get Stage 1 of works underway before opening in 2019, conserving the paintings will be an ongoing and long-term project.