The major conservation project was delivered in close collaboration with the National Trust, and focused on the repair and restoration of the roof and historic fabric of the Grade I-listed building. Critical findings in our 2016 Quinquennial Inspection, which identified extensive deterioration to the South Wing and Tower roofs, including failed leadwork, poor drainage, and moisture retention caused by modern materials highlighted the need for the works. We took a minimal-intervention approach which was rooted in repair rather than replacement.

As Conservation Architect and Lead Consultant, we worked with the National Trust to develop and deliver a significance-led scheme, using traditional craft skills and appropriate materials to ensure durability, honesty, and reversibility. Ecological considerations were also carefully considered with works programmed to protect bat roosts within the roof structure.

​This recognition is a fantastic achievement and a real testament to the dedication, expertise, and collaboration of the entire project team. Huge thanks to the National Trust, the project team, funders, and everyone who supported the project. We’re incredibly proud to see this important conservation work recognised at a national level and are very much looking forward to the awards ceremony in March.

We’re back inside The Golden Lion this week for the first time since the debris was cleared, the windows unboarded, and the stud walls removed, and what a moment it is!
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For the first time in many years, the building stands open and full of light once again. It’s a fleeting stage in the project, but one that felt important to document and appreciate before the next chapter begins.

​Inside, the internal ‘birdcage’ scaffold is now in place and will be completed this week. Next up, the external scaffold, which begins shortly and will take shape throughout November.

​This marks the start of an exciting new phase for the Golden Lion, moving from planning to delivery. Following our feasibility study for Birmingham Conservation Trust, funded by Historic England in partnership with Birmingham City Council, essential repairs can now begin. The focus will be on stabilising the structure, repairing historic fabric, and safeguarding the building’s future.
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The Golden Lion’s condition and vulnerable setting bring their challenges, but also huge potential. This is the first step in a long-term effort to bring this remarkable building back into meaningful public use, and what a privilege for us to be part of its transformation.

We love documenting these moments, using photography to tell the story of a building’s renewal. Follow the project’s journey with us as The Golden Lion comes 'roaring' back to life.

Project team

Client: Birmingham Conservation Trust
Architect: Oliver Architecture
Main contractor: Reynolds Conservation 
Structural engineer: Clive Haywood
Quantity Surveyor: PMP Consultants

Planning and faculty have now been granted for the Lottery-funded scheme People | Passion | Priory: Brecon Cathedral, The Heart and Soul of Community.

Stephen Oliver was appointed Cathedral Architect in 2015 and carried out a Quinquennial Inspection of the Cathedral and its buildings that same year. Since then, our involvement has continued, and this latest project marks an exciting new chapter.

Thanks to a Development Grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the project will deliver much-needed repairs and improvements. The scheme comprises:

• The creation of a new west door to the Cathedral;
• Reroofing and associated masonry and rainwater goods repairs at the east end;
• Internal reordering, involving the moving and repositioning of canon and choir stalls within the Presbytery, the Tithe Barn, and the Song School.

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​Improving access has been a major concern for many years - the introduction of a new west door will transform this experience, offering a welcoming, accessible, and unified entrance for all.
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This project will not only secure essential repairs but also improve inclusivity and ensure the Cathedral continues to serve as the heart and soul of its community.

Wolverhampton Central Library is one of the city’s most treasured civic buildings – and Oliver Architecture is proud to be helping shape its future.

Designed by Henry Thomas Hare and completed in 1902, the Grade II* listed library is a striking example of the ‘free Jacobean’ style, with fine brick and terracotta façades, decorative modelling, copper domes and a dramatic fleche above the main entrance. Inside, stained glass, intricate plasterwork and an elegant staircase reflect the civic ambition of its original design.
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​As part of the £61 million City Learning Quarter redevelopment, we are acting as heritage consultant for the library’s restoration and improvement works. Our current role focuses on external repairs, ensuring the building’s historic fabric is carefully conserved while enabling sensitive adaptation for future use.

The first phase of the wider programme has already delivered internal upgrades to the 1970s rear extension, with new offices, WCs, a kitchenette and improved delivery and collections areas. Future phases will include restoring the façades and roof, creating a new entrance lobby and landscaped approach, and linking the library with the Alan Garner Building via a new glazed connection.

Importantly, the library and Adult Education Wolverhampton remain open throughout construction, with completion scheduled for winter 2025. Once finished, the redevelopment will provide a high-quality environment for learners, apprentices and the wider community.

Oliver Architecture is proud to be leading the restoration of the Golden Lion in Cannon Hill Park with Birmingham Conservation Trust, following the successful completion of the feasibility stage and the award of major funding to carry out urgent repairs.

This long-awaited project takes a significant step forward thanks to a generous £344,265 grant from Historic England, awarded in partnership with Birmingham City Council. With funding now in place, the focus moves from planning to delivery, and vital repair work can now begin.

​The Golden Lion is a rare 16th-century timber-framed building with a fascinating story. Originally built in Deritend and relocated to Cannon Hill Park in 1911 by the Birmingham Archaeological Society, it has stood empty and at risk for decades. As architects, we were appointed to lead the feasibility study, assessing the building’s condition, identifying repair priorities, and helping create a long-term strategy for the building's repair and reuse.

The Golden Lion's condition and vulnerable setting present obvious challenges, but also exciting potential about its future. This next phase will focus on stabilising the structure, repairing historic fabric, and safeguarding the building’s future, with the ultimate goal of bringing the Golden Lion back into meaningful public use.
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This is not just about saving a building - It's focusses on continuing a legacy of care that began over a century ago and ensuring this extraordinary piece of Birmingham’s medieval past has a place in its future.