Conservation and repair work on the 18th-century Willmer House – also known as Museum of Farnham – is officially underway, with completion targeted for 2026.
Careful planning has ensured that the Museum will remain operational throughout the repairs. A specially designed scaffolding system has been erected to fully enclose the building's front façade. This intelligent structure is predominantly freestanding, preventing any risk of damage to the historic property while maintaining accessibility for residents and businesses on Bishop’s Mead and West Street.
A team of skilled specialists will focus on the careful recording, dismantling, and rebuilding of the upper parts of the front elevation. This includes the parapet, decorative cornice, ashlar brickwork, and second-floor window arches. Additional associated works include brickwork repairs, replacement of leadwork hoods, flashings, and rainwater goods, as well as joinery repairs and repainting.
Simultaneously, the Museum’s original timber sash windows, dating back to 1718, will undergo expert restoration to preserve their historical integrity.
Other essential works include cleaning and repairing the building’s leadwork, guttering, and downpipes. Modern paint coatings will be removed from the Portland stone windowsills and entrance door case to reveal and restore the original stone surfaces beneath, ensuring the façade’s authentic appearance is retained.
This vital conservation work is part of a long-term effort to preserve the architectural heritage of Willmer House, safeguarding its legacy for future generations.
Cllr Kika Mirylees of Waverley Borough Council said: “We are so happy that this work is now starting and that the historic integrity of this beautiful building will be preserved for the community.
"This project is a testament to our dedication to maintaining our heritage sites for future generations and we are working hard with partners to ensure any disruption to the local community is kept to a minimum.”
Peter Glanville, chief executive of Farnham Maltings, said: “I’m thrilled this vital restoration work is getting underway – to have the façade of Willmer House back to its original glory will be an historic moment for the life of the Museum of Farnham.
“It’s really going to enhance the profile of the museum and support our ambitions for the work we wish to deliver to communities across the borough and beyond, supported by Waverley Borough Council.’’
Cllr Mark Merryweather, Waverley Borough Council’s portfolio holder for finance, assets and property, said: “This is fantastic news for Farnham, as Willmer House is one of the nation’s most important historic buildings.
“I would like to thank the dedicated council officers that have worked so hard to get this project to fruition.”
The project is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and a Museum Estate and Development grant secured through Arts Council England, alongside contributions from Waverley Borough Council, Farnham Town Council and the Farnham and District Museum Society.
MCS is working in close collaboration with Farnham Museum, Waverley Borough Council, Oliver Kannemeyer of Drake & Kannemeyer, Graham Abrey of Ingram Consultancy and Scaffold Designers Limited.
