Treadgolds stirs the emotions of many but not least the local community of Portsea who are passionate about preserving what they regard as “their heritage”. It has strong associations with the Dockyard having been established by the conversion of terraced housing built in the Queen Anne period during the rapid expansion of the Dockyard and built using many surplus dockyard materials, illustrated by the use of cannon racks as main structural beams.                                                       

The John Pounds Community Trust has already converted part of the building for community use. The most historic part of the former ironmongers has yet to be renovated although the Trust now has the benefit of a considerable amount of survey material and business planning financed by the NHLF which will enable it to determine a robust plan for its future use. 

The opportunity to achieve this is currently threatened by the poor condition of the roof which has already led to deterioration of the fabric despite constant efforts to effect temporary repairs where leaks are detected.

Following a detailed condition survey in 2024, extensive roof repairs were identified to prevent further water ingress into the building, causing damage to internal fabric and decay of the primary structure. Successful grant funding from the Historic England Capital Repair Fund now means repairs can be undertaken to the defective roof coverings as the next phase to bring the remaining building into community use. Natural insulation will be fitted, lead gutters replaced, and rainwater goods overhauled and replaced where possible to suit greater volumes of rainwater.

Work has now started on site meaning the reroofing of Treadgolds will safeguard this important element of Portsea heritage so much loved by those living around it. Work is expected to be completed by Spring next year.