The NT says that a restoration would be a replica and that this would not
be the real thing.
Answer:
This reflects outdated thinking. It is now accepted around the world that a
reconstruction following the original design and using authentic materials and
techniques is worth doing, and much better than a ruin.
The NT says that it is providing training opportunities in heritage craft.
Answer:
Only in brickmaking, bricklaying and repointing the brickwork. The art of freehand modelling in lime plaster is in danger of dying out if a new cohort of apprentices is not trained. This can happen if the interior is restored, but the NT does not want to do this.
Isn't it too expensive?
Answer:
The NT has already committed to using all of the insurance payout and additional money from its reserves to out in place its misguided scheme. An opportunity was missed immediately after the fire to start fundraising, but it is not too late. Many members are willing to contribute generously, and the NT can apply for lottery and government grants, just as it did when money was need to rescue and restore Tyntesfield.
The NT says that this is completely different from Uppark.
Answer:
The amount of original material used at Uppark varies from room to room. The challenge presented by the Staircase Hall is very similar to Clandon, in that only
one small plaster fragment could be re-used. Everything else you see is completely new. The work to reconstruct interiors at Clandon would be on a larger scale but would not be essentially different.
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