The award follows the renewal of the nave roof after design faults 50 years ago meant the lead had split causing leaks.  Repairs included a new lead roof, stonework, coping stone, balustrade repairs, strengthening rotten roof joists and the provision of overflows. Two roof access hatches were installed to allow access, to the parapet gutters for maintenance.

The project, which took nine months to complete, was managed by Rachel Morris, Chief Executive at Derby Cathedral. The work also included a huge, temporary roof being built over the nave to protect the interior and visitors during the renovation.

Mrs Morris said: “Derby Cathedral is delighted to have been Highly Recommended for this project.  It was only possible with funding from the ‘First World War Centenary Cathedral Repairs Fund’, and a great project team including architect Robert Kilgour, main contractors Midland Stonemasonry and subcontractors Tamworth Scaffolding, to all of whom Derby Cathedral Chapter is very grateful.

“The professionalism and commitment of all the contractors means that the roof is watertight and fit for purpose, ensuring that Derby Cathedral is safe and dry for the people of Derby and visitors to enjoy for decades to come.”

The Construction Project of the Year category rewards innovative and challenging construction projects that have been delivered on time and to budget in the East Midlands.

Derby Cathedral is a Church of England ‘parish church cathedral’ and was an important medieval collegiate church.  All that remains of this is the 1530s tower which dominates the City’s skyline and holds the oldest ring of ten bells in the world. The nave was completed by James Gibbs in 1723 and is a symbol of Derby’s place in the Enlightenment at the start of the Industrial Revolution. 

It became a cathedral in 1927.  The building sits at the top of Iron Gate in the award-winning Cathedral Quarter, close to the World Heritage site including the Silk Mill Museum next to the River Derwent.