Much needed conservation work on one of Cumbria's most significant heritage sites is set to finish in the next few weeks.

English Heritage has invested almost £140k into Shap Abbey and parts of the river Lowther, on which it sits.

The 12 month project has been carried out by specialist contractors, mainly stone masons experienced in heritage conservation, as well as the Environment Agency. Ecological advisors have worked to ensure that the works don't harm the significant natural environment - the protected white clawed crayfish live in the river along with a family of otters. Archaeologists have also been on site to oversee the works to the riverbank.

The River Lowther was subject to flash floods in 2015 when many other parts of Cumbria were badly affected by the heavy rainfall. The high level and speed of the river damaged the river banks resulting in the loss of some areas of medieval masonry.

Works to the upper level of the west tower include the removal of potentially damaging vegetation and repairs to the masonry. The project also includes the introduction of a 'soft capping' layer to the top of the cellar range. This acts as a sponge reducing the amount of rainwater which can penetrate into the structure. This technique has been very successful in reducing the damaging effects of excessive water at Sawley Abbey in Lancashire and Hales Abbey in Gloucestershire.

Preserving our heritage

Derrick Hodgson, Maintenance Project Manager at English Heritage commented: "These works are essential to the future conservation of this superb example of a Premonstratensian Abbey. Shap Abbey sits within the Coast to Coast route and forms an important part of Cumbria's landscape. The team have worked hard to ensure that this work has been done on time and to a high standard to preserve our heritage."

In its new role as a charity English Heritage is embarking upon a major conservation programme, the largest in the history of the collection of sites and monuments in its care - Shap Abbey is just one of these projects. This programme will promote traditional heritage and conservation skills and English Heritage aims to establish a new in-house team of expert craftspeople.

For more from English Heritage, follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.