Burrell Foley Fischer (BFF) is leading the design team for Past Preserved, a project to conserve and adapt the Grade II* listed Tithe Barn and Grade II listed Old Dairy at St Osyth Priory in Essex. Supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and delivered with St Osyth Priory & Parish Trust, the project will bring both buildings back into use for community, cultural and commercial activities.
An estate with almost 900 years of history
Set within 350 acres of registered parkland near Clacton-on-Sea, St Osyth Priory is one of the most significant heritage sites in Essex. Founded in the early 12th century as an Augustinian priory, it was later remodelled as a Tudor residence and then a country house. Its 16 listed buildings reflect that long evolution, although several remain on Historic England's Heritage at Risk Register. Past Preserved is part of a wider programme of restoration across the estate.
The Tithe Barn and Old Dairy
The Grade II* listed Tithe Barn is the heart of the project. Its timber structure survives remarkably intact, and its combination of stone and timber construction is unusual. Associated with the first Lord Darcy's remodelling of the Priory after the Dissolution of the Monasteries, it is an important survivor of 16th-century agricultural architecture. Nearby, the Grade II listed Old Dairy completes the pair, and together the two buildings tell the story of the Priory's working landscape.
Conservation and change
BFF is developing a conservation-led approach to the repair and adaptation of both buildings, protecting their original fabric and character while meeting the needs of modern use. The proposals will create flexible, accessible spaces for community gatherings, cultural activities, educational programmes, weddings and other events.
The approach rests on the belief that conservation and change go hand in hand. Giving the buildings a viable new purpose means the income they generate can help pay for their long-term care.
Opening the Priory to its neighbours
Past Preserved is as much about people as buildings. The Trust wants to make the Priory's history, architecture and landscape more accessible to local people through workshops, exhibitions, events and learning programmes.
These will include opportunities to learn traditional building crafts and conservation skills, as well as volunteering, apprenticeships and work experience. Working with partners including St Osyth Museum, the project aims to encourage participation from communities across Tendring, supporting wellbeing and social connection and giving people a greater sense of ownership of their local heritage.
The restored buildings will also host cultural and commercial activities, supporting the visitor economy and contributing to the Priory's ongoing upkeep.
Looking ahead
Past Preserved shows how careful conservation and imaginative new uses can keep historic buildings working for the people around them. Further details about the project and the Trust can be found here: https://www.stosythprioryandparishtrust.org/