In a significant boost to the preservation of one of Surrey’s most treasured historical landmarks, the Museum of Farnham has been awarded a quarter of a million-pound grant from the National Lottery. The funding is intended for urgent repair work on the Grade-I listed Willmer House, a structure steeped in history dating back to its construction in 1718 during the reign of George I. Despite this financial windfall, the total cost of the project has surged, necessitating further deliberations before restoration work can commence.

A Surge in Costs and Council Commitment

The anticipated expense for repairing this historical gem has increased by 20 percent, rising from an initial estimate of £1 million to a revised figure of £1.2 million. This escalation comes even after Waverley Borough Council had previously committed to filling any financial voids last year when the budget was first estimated.

The original budgetary projections were based on preliminary estimates, while the newly adjusted figure reflects the actual bids received for the undertaken work. In July 2023, the council addressed a £275k funding gap in the project after securing £735k from the Arts Council. However, with costs increasing, a definitive decision on how to bridge the remaining financial disparity will not be made until September.

Council's Standpoint

Source: https://guildford-dragon.com/lottery-grant-for-farnham-museum/

Cllr Peter Martin (Con, Godalming Holloway), who presides over the council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee, expressed confidence that the council would continue to support the project financially, similar to the previous year's pledge. However, he emphasised the need to scrutinise why the budget has grown by 20 percent.

“We all regard the Farnham Museum as a terrific asset belonging to the community and would wish to ensure that that continues,” Martin stated, reflecting the community’s sentiment toward this valuable cultural asset.

Historical Significance and Planned Repairs

Constructed in 1718 for a local hop merchant, Willmer House has served various roles over the centuries, including a school and dental surgery, before becoming the Museum of Farnham in 1961. The National Lottery Heritage Fund’s new grant of £230,310 will facilitate crucial repairs to deteriorating brickwork, collapsing second-floor window arches, and eroded mortar joints.

A spokesperson for Waverley Borough Council explained, “Costs for the works on Willmer House were pre-tender estimates at the time of the funding application. These costs have increased now the works have been tendered. The tender outcome will go to Full Council on 16 September at which point the council’s recommendation regarding funding will be delivered.”

Ensuring Long-Term Conservation

Cllr Kika Mirylees (Farnham Residents, Farnham Firgrove), Waverley Borough Council’s portfolio holder for community services and leisure, highlighted the significance of the new funding. She remarked, “The funding will allow much-needed essential repairs to take place but also ensure the long-term conservation of this wonderful building, and we are extremely grateful to the Heritage Fund for assisting us in this important project.”

The museum’s main red-brick façade, celebrated as one of the finest examples of Baroque-style architecture in the nation, is in dire need of restoration. The planned work encompasses rebuilding the parapet wall, replacing the existing brick cornice, reconstructing second-floor window brick arches, and refurbishing the original timber sash windows and main entrance doorway. Additional efforts include restoring Portland stone windowsills and the doorstep, along with a comprehensive cleaning of the entire façade.

Project Timeline and Community Impact

Restoration activities are slated to begin in late summer, with most brickwork initially conducted off-site. The renovation is expected to be completed by the end of the following year. Importantly, the museum will remain accessible to the public throughout the construction period, ensuring continued community engagement.

Peter Glanville, CEO of Farnham Maltings, emphasised the project’s positive community impact. “This funding will enable Willmer House to continue to serve the people of Farnham for years to come. Throughout the project, we look forward to welcoming the local community to learn more about the intricate restoration work taking place, and discover the wonderful local stories held within the museum,” he said.