Medieval priory gatehouse no longer at risk

A medieval gatehouse has been removed from a register of Nottinghamshire buildings at risk, but a church has been added.

Historic England compiles the list to highlight heritage sites which are in particular need of investment to safeguard their future.

The Grade I listed 14th Century Worksop Priory Gatehouse was originally added to the register in 1998, but after years of restoration work it has now been returned to community use.

However, St Catherine's in Teversal, which dates back to the 12th Century, has been added as issues with the roof mean much of its 17th Century interior is threatened by water leaks.

The register currently has 90 listings for Nottinghamshire.

The Gatehouse once formed the entrance to the medieval Worksop Priory, but survived the dissolution of the monasteries by King Henry VIII in 1539.

It was added to the Heritage at Risk Register in 1998 due to its deteriorating condition, leaking roof, falling plasterwork and faulty electrics.

It was partly repaired in 2023, with further emergency repairs to the roof and installation of gates carried out the following year.

Recent repairs were funded largely by a £263,540 grant from Historic England's Heritage at Risk Capital Fund in 2025.

The works included new flooring, lime plaster repairs to the ceiling in the main hall, a new kitchen and upgraded wiring and plumbing. The building is now being used as flexible community space

Fran Walker, chair of the Worksop Priory and Gatehouse Community Trust, said: "We are delighted that the Gatehouse has been removed from the Heritage at Risk Register and is now back in use for the first time in 25 years.

"The support from Historic England, partners and local people in helping to save this special building gives us hope that it will continue to be cared for, used and valued for many generations to come."

While St Catherine's dates back to the medieval period, it was remodelled in the 17th Century, and this interior is particularly well preserved.

It is also noted for its links to the author DH Lawrence, as the village of Teversal served as the inspiration for the setting of his book Lady Chatterley's Lover.

Louisa Moore, Historic England's places regeneration team leader for the Midlands, said: "As with many churches, there is a need for roof repairs. Once the water gets in it causes a lot of problems.

"Fundraising is under way now for repairs and reroofing and putting it on the at risk register gives it the attention the congregation can use to go and ramp up their fundraising.

"These buildings tell our story, the story of the people who lived, worked and worshipped in them, and once a historic building is gone, that building, its story and its potential future uses, is gone forever."

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