Built as The Picture House in 1912, the Grade 2 listed Curzon has been continuously at the social heart of Clevedon for over 100 years. The imposing building, the extensive collection and archive of cinema artefacts and the memories the Curzon holds make it a special place for the heritage of the community and this most popular of art forms. This project, focusing on repairing the roof, is the first phase in our masterplan
The project will repair the leaking and damaged roof. Condition reports have identified many elements in poor condition and the need for urgent significant repairs: water penetration from the leaking roof causing wet rot in timberwork and possible dry rot, and in turn damaging the internal fabric, plasterwork and the skelionite panelling. Delaminating, loose and fragile roof tiles are no longer capable of re-use and will be replaced with tiles matching visually. We will repair the external masonry on the parapets, and replace leaking gutters and rainwater pipes which are causing vegetation to take root in masonry and internal dampness, with new rainwater goods more suited to extreme weather events. We will improve weight bearing timbers, some damaged by beetle infestation, to allow future walkways and safety ladders. We will insulate the roof and reinstate the historic ventilation scheme, and remove asbestos to improve access.
The estimated cost for this work is £500,000 for which we will be making applications to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and other Trusts and Foundations. To boost these grants the Curzon will programme fundraising events and themed screenings over Summer 2019 - a Curzon Roof Festival!