Haldon Belvedere, Devon

Valencia Communities Fund awarded £95,878 towards conservation and restoration of the iconic Georgian folly known as Haldon Belvedere.

Originally refurbished from near ruin in the early 90s, two major storms in 2012 and 2013 revealed defects that had occurred in the lead detailing, the dressed stone and the render, which had allowed water into the fabric of the tower.

What followed was no mean feat. Due to the nature of the building, the contractors were unable to use scaffolding. Instead, conservationists worked via rope access from the roof of the building, making good the exteriior with repaired lead, surface treatments to protect against damp and repainting the folly.

The result of the work ensures the building will continue to shine across the Haldon Forest and surrounding area.

Debbie Parnall of Devon Historic Buildings Trust, said "the award from Valencia Communities Fund has enabled us to fully restore and safe-guard the unique Haldon Belvedere for future generations."