Kent-based R Durtnell & Sons, founded in 1591 and reputed to be Britain’s oldest builder, has ceased trading.
Among the projects the contractor had been working on was the £15m refurbishment of the Grade-I-listed Brighton Dome Corn Exchange and Studio Theatre. Brighton & Hove City Council confirmed that the firm had ceased to trade and said it was exploring “practical options” to complete the restoration works.
Construction work on the Corn Exchange, which has the widest span timber frame roof in the country, began in February 2018 but has experienced several unforeseen issues on the historic site, including structural issues with the building’s 200-year-old wooden frame and roof trusses, and the discovery of a Quaker burial ground.
Register for free and continue reading
This is not a paywall. Registration allows us to enhance your experience across Construction Management and ensure we deliver you quality editorial content.
Registering also means you can manage your own CPDs, comments, newsletter sign-ups and privacy settings.
