Western Morning News (Saturday)
Funds boost to restore Elizabethan House
Plans to restore and finally reopen Plymouth’s historic Elizabethan House in time for the Mayflower 400 celebrations – and a possible visit by Donald Trump – have been given a boost from a government grant.
The Ministry for Housing Communities and Local Government has announced a grant of £44,208 for the project from the Coastal Revival Fund.
In 2020, the two countries will celebrate 400 years since the Pilgrim Fathers left Plymouth on board the Mayflower, bound for the New World. Plymouth City Council claimed its aim was to fully restore the building so it can play a key part in the Mayflower 400 commemorations and beyond. Recent reports that US President Donald Trump was keen to visit Plymouth as part of the Mayflower 400 event could even see him visit the historic building.
According to historians the first recorded occupant of the Elizabethan House at 32 New Street was a man called William Hele. He purchased the property from a merchant called Richard Brendan in 1631 for £150.
During the rest of the 17th and 18th centuries the house had a number of different occupants, most notably around 1746, the London Company of Merchant Ventures who were developing and exploring the fishing grounds of Newfoundland.
The restoration work of the building includes a small two storey extension to the back of the building, which will provide space for new toilets, a kitchen for staff and storage.
It will also support the deteriorated rear wall of the Grade II star listed building.
Deputy leader of the council, Councillor Peter Smith said: “We’ve just unveiled our full plans for Mayflower 400 and this amazing building is going to play its part in attracting visitors and telling local people the stories of those who lived in this house.
“Funding is always a challenge, so this is extremely welcome news. The work will ensure that the historic fabric of the house is preserved but at the same time ensure it is fit for the public to visit.”
‘Funding is always a challenge, so this is extremely welcome’
Councillor Peter Smith