Protecting Britain's Historic Buildings
"Postponed due to unforseen circumstance"
Speaker: Alan Gardner, Head of Climate Adaptation for Buildings at Historic England
Date: Saturday, 11 October 2025
Location: Hebden Bridge Town Hall
Time: 7.30 – 9.00 pm
(bar open from 6.30pm)
What does it take to protect Britain's historic buildings in an ever changing world?
Join Alan Gardner, Head of Climate Adaptation for Buildings at Historic England, as he recounts stories from more than three decades spent in the front line of heritage protection. From nail-biting emergencies to visionary projects, Alan's tales reveal the dilemmas, dramas and triumphs behind keeping our built past alive.
You'll hear first-hand about the extraordinary day in 2003 when an axe-wielding intruder stormed Waltham Abbey, and about the high-stakes battles where Alan stood his ground to stop vulnerable landmarks being demolished before their time. His work has saved treasures such as All Souls Church in Bolton and Tonge Hall in Middleton, preserving them for future generations.
Closer to home, Alan has long been part of Hebden Bridge's story. He gave voluntary help and advice to the Picture House after the devastating floods, dealing with the looming threat of a ceiling collapse. He is also a Trustee of the Town Hall, working to ensure its historic character is protected for future generations.
Looking ahead, Alan tackles one of the greatest challenges of our age: how to adapt historic environments for climate change without stripping them of their soul. Can centuries-old buildings become sustainable? Alan believes they can — and he'll show how places like the 900-year-old Heron Corn Mill in Cumbria, now both a working mill and a renewable-powered community hub, point the way forward.
This richly illustrated talk blends philosophy and practice, technical know-how and human drama. Expect striking images, candid anecdotes, and insights that cut to the heart of why heritage matters. Whether you're passionate about architecture, curious about climate, or simply love a good story, this is an evening not to miss.
About the speaker
Alan Gardner is one of the UK's leading conservationists. A Chartered Building Surveyor, accredited in Building Conservation and a SPAB Lethaby Scholar, he has worked for the National Trust, English Heritage, and the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, as well as running his own conservation practice for over a decade. At Historic England he now leads a team at the cutting edge of climate adaptation, advising government and inspiring the next generation of conservationists.
Tickets on Sale now at the Town Hall or online at: hblitandsci.org.uk
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