A neglected architectural gem in Blackheath is to be saved from ruin thanks to local campaigners. The Wren-style Boone’s Chapel has been languishing on Lee High Road for almost half a century.
Despite being one of only two Grade I listed buildings in Lewisham it was on English Heritage’s Buildings at Risk Register and was facing an uncertain future as it became more rundown.
The chapel was built in 1683 by Christopher Boone, a London merchant, and once formed part of a bigger almshouse complex.
Although the almshouses and surrounding estate are long gone the chapel survived, but its tiny size meant that it was hard to find a practical use for it.
In the postwar period the chapel fell into disuse and gradually assumed its current graffiti-covered semi-derelict state.
Now, though, after almost a decade of campaigning and
fundraising, the Blackheath Historic Buildings Trust has secured £500,000 for the building to be restored to its former glory. It will also enjoy a fitting new lease of productive life as the offices of a firm of architects and a venue for public exhibitions.
The Chairman of the Blackheath Heritage Buildings Trust, Sir Ian Mills, said: “This was a building at risk that has been rescued in the nick of time. This project would not have been possible without the wholehearted support of the local community and the Merchant Taylors’ Company, the freeholders of the site.”
The Heritage Lottery Fund gave £262,500 to the project and English Heritage gave a grant of £65,000. The rest of the money was raised by local people.
The building will now be used commercially and local people will be able to enjoy its restored interior as the chapel will be open to the public on 30 days a year. Sir Ian Mills said: “I am delighted that local people will have regular access to this exceptional building.”