The event is supported by Historic England and Historic Environment Scotland with assistance from Cadw,  Earth Building UK & Ireland, York Conservation Trust, York Minster and the University of York. It has been recognised by the Institute of Historic Building Conservation for CPD.

The Traditional Mortars Symposium aims to bring together current thinking and knowledge about traditional mortars, presenting recent research outcomes, revised heritage agency guidance and case studies from around the UK, Ireland, Spain and Canada. Speakers will draw upon experience of using traditional mortars for the repair and conservation of historic fabric, sharing their insights and knowledge in theory and practice. 

The Symposium is intended to result in informed specification and us of lime mortars. It will cover the mixing and confident use of earth-lime and hot mixed lime mortars, as well as demonstrating their historic prevalence, usefulness and enhanced performance characteristics. It is aimed at builders and conservation professionals and practitioners. 

Nigel Copsey from the Building Limes Forum committee, who is a practising stonemason and building conservator, has been instrumental in the organisation of the event. He says: “Over the past five years there has been a growing awareness of the historic ubiquity of earthlime and hot mixed lime mortars and a renewed emphasis on like-for-like repair of traditional buildings, as well as important research into the character and performance of natural hydraulic lime mortars and the historic precedence for their use. 

"Like-for-like and compatible repair will usually require the use of earth-lime and hot mixed lime mortars. Therefore it is important that there is increased awareness of them."

For more information about the programme go to: https://www.buildinglimesforum.org.uk/events/york-symposium/