US experts helping to preserve castle stones (From Durham Times)

US experts helping to preserve castle stones

4:10pm Friday 17th July 2009 in News

AMERICAN experts have been called in to help save the last remaining stones which built Durham Castle.

The iconic castle was established more than 900 years ago as a fortress against invading Scots, but has failed to keep out the English weather, leading to its sandstone walls becoming eroded.

During repeated works carried out over the centuries, damaged stones have been replaced rather than restored, leading to there being a limited amount of the original Norman structure left standing.

Now Durham University, which owns the castle and uses it as accommodation for about 100 students, has teamed up with the University of Pennsylvania in an effort to stop the rot.

Postgraduate students are a week into a detailed monthlong examination of the castle’s eastern facade.

Once their work is complete, they will return to their US labs to work on stone restoration techniques, before returning next summer to carry out the work.

Students Tiffani Simple and Yaritza Hernandez are working under stone conservation expert Prof Frank G Matero.

Miss Simple said: “I love the castle. In terms of weathering and erosion, it’s moderate to heavy and severe. It will be a long project – there’s a lot to do. I’m surprised by how much it’s eroded. This is about bringing in new techniques.”

Prof Chris Higgins, vicechancellor of Durham University, said: “Durham University recognises the pivotal role that culture can play in the regeneration of the North- East and is proud to be taking an active part in the preservation and promotion of Durham’s heritage.

“Other heritage-related projects under way include the creation of a world-class exhibition space in Palace Green Library, showcasing Durham’s treasures, and the establishment of a World Heritage Site visitor facility.”

Durham Cathedral’s Canon Rosalind Brown said: “This initiative is a very good example of international collaboration to enhance a site that is of international interest.”