Bat flats created during Rowantree Stob restoration

Sep 24 2009 by Graeme Whitfield, The Journal

BAT “flats” have been created during the saving of a picturesque historic ruin.

Rowantree Stob, in the East Allen Valley near Allendale in Northumberland, is a scheduled ancient monument which was once a fortified property, parts of which date to the 16th Century.

Because of its proximity to an adjacent public footpath, it was considered dangerous in its present state.

Following discussions with Allendale Estates and the local farmer of South Pry Hill Farm where the bastle is situated, Natural England has been able to help save Rowantree Stob with funding through its agricultural Higher Level Stewardship programme.

Specialist contractors Gary and Jim Simpson, of Heritage Consolidation Ltd based in Greenhead, Northumberland, were appointed to halt the decay to the building.

And in a sensitive restoration which is now almost complete, walls have been cleared of vegetation, debris removed, and a key feature of the building – the 17th century chimney stack – has been painstakingly repaired to make it safe while still retaining the distinctive lean of the structure which adds to its character.

During the repairs, Natural England also took the opportunity to incorporate ledges inside the stonework in order to create living quarters for crevice dwelling bats and other species known to be present in the vicinity.

It is hoped that by modifying the structure internally local wildlife will now be able to occupy the chimney as a safe haven for roosting or hibernation.