Historic England grant secures immediate future of former school in Peterborough Cathedral’s precinct, a plaque will be unveiled on the visitor centre at Lincoln Cathedral marking an iconic connection with the city it serves, and Worcester Cathedral opens new footpath that strengthens the link between the city and the cathedral, just some of the heritage and community projects completed in our cathedrals this summer.
Peterborough Cathedral has announced that Laurel Court, a Grade I listed building in their precincts has been awarded £136,653 from the Heritage at Risk Capital Fund.
This funding, provided by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and administered by Historic England, aims to safeguard and restore historic sites across England.
Laurel Court was formerly a school and the place where Edith Cavell learned French as a student teacher – a skill that proved vital to her later work as a nurse in Brussels.
Due to severe structural deterioration, the building has been vacant since April 2024 and will now undergo emergency repairs to address issues such as falling masonry and structural integrity. These urgent interventions will ensure the building is watertight and secure, marking the initial phase of its comprehensive restoration.
The Dean of Peterborough Cathedral, the Very Reverend, Chris Dalliston, welcomed the news;
“We are absolutely delighted to receive this vital support for Laurel Court, which has long been an important part of the Cathedral’s historic precinct.
‘This grant will help us take the first crucial steps towards safeguarding the building’s future and exploring exciting new uses that will benefit the wider community.
‘We’re grateful to Historic England and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport for recognising both the urgency and the potential of this project.”
The cathedral is exploring various options for the building’s future use, including the potential to house the cathedral’s song school. This initiative aligns with Peterborough Cathedral’s commitment to preserving local heritage and creating valuable community spaces.
Louise Brennan, Director of Regions at Historic England, commented,
“This grant will breathe new life into Laurel Court, preserving its historical significance while contributing to the cultural vibrancy of Peterborough. We are pleased to support projects that enhance community engagement and economic growth through heritage restoration.”
This funding represents a significant step towards revitalizing Laurel Court as a vital part of Peterborough’s architectural and cultural landscape, ensuring its legacy for future generations.
