Palace’s roof to be replaced after two centuries of leaks

THE QUEEN has been granted permission to replace the leaky north roof at Buckingham Palace, nearly 200 years after the problem was first recorded.

Conservationists are to strip and replace the original 19th-century roof and rebuild structurally defective chimney stacks.

In planning documents, Martin Ashley Architects, of Twickenham, said: “The existing asphalt roof is in very poor condition, with a failing solar reflective covering and extensive blistering and cracking of the asphalt surface. The works are largely a like-for-like renewal of roof coverings.”

Westminster City Council has granted permission for the works.

The north range of the palace dates from the second major development phase of the site, which involved the remodelling of the then Buckingham House between 1820 and 1837.

Work was started by architect John Nash under King George IV, followed by Edward Blore from 1831-1835.

Much of the building was completed externally by 1827 but the design of low wings with higher-ended pavilions came in for much criticism.

A year later, the ends were made taller to match the main block and the existing roof structure is therefore understood to date from 1828-9. Nash was then sacked for overspending.

Following his removal, expert advice was sought in 1831 on the expense, as well as the condition and security of the Palace.

Doubt was cast over the suitability of the roof which was made from ‘Stanhope’s Composition’ – a forerunner of asphalt made from Stockholm tar, dried powdered chalk and sifted sand.

A report at the time said: “The architects were doubtful of the permanency of the roofing made of Stanhope’s Composition.

In 1831, it was agreed the roof should be replaced with copper or lead. But the work was never done

Rain had already penetrated the covering of the south-west tower, and though fissures in the composition might readily be closed, there was no guarantee against their recurrence.

“The substitution of a more durable covering was therefore advised.”

That year, experts questioned whether the roof put up by Nash should be removed entirely.

They agreed it should be replaced with a copper or lead alternative, but it was never done.