MP visits landmark as restoration work starts
PLEA FOR RESIDENTS’ STORIES ABOUT HISTORIC SITE
A COUNTY MP has visited a historic Ice House to see the beginning of renovations works to restore the grade II-listed landmark to its former glory.
Built in 1843, the Ice House at Bouskell Park in Blaby was used to store ice for the nearby Blaby Hall and was a symbol of significant wealth.
Following an award of £156,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Blaby District Council has now begun work to repair it and discover its full archaeological and historical features.
The council is also appealing for more information from any local residents who would like to share any knowledge of the Ice House, Blaby Hall or the history of Bouskell Park.
Details of a much-anticipated community dig at Bouskell Park in Blaby Village have also been recently announced by Blaby District Council to coincide with the Ice House renovation works – the dig will hope to unearth the history of the park which was previously home to a deserted medieval village and will take place in April next year.
South Leicestershire MP, Alberto Costa, said it was a “real privilege to visit the historic landmark and to learn about the hugely exciting plans Blaby District Council have for the site’s repair and future”.
He added: “The renovated Ice House will be a brilliant boost for tourism in the district, and will no doubt encourage people to visit this lovely part of the constituency in order to see a magnificent part of South Leicestershire’s proud history”.
Sharon Coe, Blaby District Councillor and lead for health, wellbeing and regulatory services, said: “It was great to welcome Alberto to visit the Ice House as we reach an exciting stage of the site’s restoration.
“The dome structure is currently being repaired, and we remain on track to see the Ice House ready by the New Year. This really is an exciting project.
“It has been fantastic to see the enthusiastic response from residents who want to see the Ice House returned to its former glory and take part in our community dig next April.”
Mr Costa added: “I would like to thank Sharon and the fantastic team at Blaby District for all of their excellent work in bringing this project to life and for creating an opportunity for local people to get involved in the community dig next year, and have a hand in unearthing some of Blaby’s exciting history.
“I would also like to appeal to any constituents or residents of Leicestershire for any information anyone might have about the Ice House, Blaby Hall or Bouskell Park in order to help find out more about our local historical landmarks”.
If anyone has any knowledge about the history of the Ice House, Blaby Hall or Bouskell Park, e-mail Gemma Tallis, the Buried Bouskell project coordinator, at: