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Cross Keys Hotel, Burnley – Heritage Restoration Project

Our team was proud to undertake the restoration and conservation of the historic Cross Keys Hotel in Burnley; a well-known local landmark located in the heart of the town centre. The project involved a comprehensive range of heritage works designed to preserve the building’s architectural character while enhancing its structural integrity and longevity.

The building remained fully occupied throughout the project, with a busy café operating on the ground floor and residential tenants living in the flats above. This required careful planning, clear communication, and a flexible approach to minimise disruption. Certain elements of the works were completed out of hours, and close coordination with occupants ensured that both the café and flats could always remain open and accessible.

The restoration included extensive lime mortar repointing, replacing hard cement pointing with a breathable, traditional lime mortar that allows the masonry to perform naturally. The external stonework was sensitively cleaned using the DOFF steam cleaning system, effectively removing dirt, algae, and carbon staining without damaging the delicate stone surfaces.

We also carried out structural rebuilding works, including the pinning and re-bedding of copings and roofing repairs and replacements to improve stability and weatherproofing. Skilled stonemasons completed hand-carved replacement stone details to match the existing fabric, ensuring a seamless and authentic restoration.

The project also included chimney restoration works, with the installation of new chimney pots in keeping with the original design. Our joinery and glazing teams undertook a full refurbishment of the timber sash windows, including new glazing installation, burnt sand mastic repairs, and complete decoration to protect and enhance the windows’ historic appearance.

As part of the external finishes, we carried out decoration of the rainwater goods, renewing their protective coatings and improving both functionality and visual consistency across the elevations.

Despite the challenges of working within a live environment, the project was completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest conservation standards. The works have breathed new life into the Cross Keys Hotel, restoring its original charm while ensuring it remains structurally sound and visually striking for years to come. The result is a beautifully revitalised heritage building that continues to serve the local community a showcase of skilled traditional craftsmanship and careful project management.