The first permanent new build at Salisbury Cathedral since the 15th century opened shortly before Christmas. A purpose-designed building called ‘Little Paradise’ provides new toilet facilities and storage space. And it marks a significant milestone for the cathedral in delivering a long-term programme of improved facilities for its congregation and visitors.
There were two types of stone used in Little Paradise. Chicksgrove limestone was used for the new walls, including plinths, two courses of lower weatherings, ashlar, quoins and copings. There were also approximately 45-50m2 of 50mm thick Purbeck flooring for the main entrance way. There was no stone in the new toliets.
The building combines the stone with timber and glass. The stone and timber provides a blend with the historic environment around it, while the glass allows the original fabric, which is minimally impacted, to be seen.
The new facilities replace temporary toilets, enhancing the appearance of the south side of the building and simultaneously returning the south cloister, which had become an overflow storage area, to its original beautiful and reflective space. The project has been made possible through donations, legacies and pledges from the Friends of Salisbury Cathedral and other generous supporters.
The Dean of Salisbury, the Very Revd June Osborne, says: “This new building between the Cathedral and the Chapter House has long been an ambition and I’m truly delighted that it has finally come to fruition, enabling us to provide a better welcome to congregation and visitors alike.
“Its design harmonizes beautifully with the Cathedral. I’d like to express my sincere thanks to Alex Durtnell, whose company R Durtnell & Sons Ltd in Farnborough, fulfilled the contract, and to the Friends of Salisbury Cathedral and all our funders.”
Alex Durtnell, chairman of R Durtnell & Sons, says: “From start to finish, we have all enjoyed working closely with the Cathedral and the professional team creating a new important facility. Working in such beautiful surroundings was a real treat for all our staff and sub-contractors and was an experience we will not forget. We wish the Cathedral, its staff and congregation all the best for the future and hope that Little Paradise is well received.”
This important new build, together with the recently completed restoration work on the north cloister, continues the Cathedral’s preparations for Magna Carta’s 800th anniversary in 2015 when it expects to welcome many thousands of people to see the finest of the four surviving 1215 originals.
Little Paradise is accessed through an existing doorway in the east cloister.