Enthusiasm as ‘Buildings at Risk’ Project Launches in Erewash

The ‘Buildings at Risk’ (B@R) project is now live in Erewash, following a fantastic response in Amber Valley, Derby and South Derbyshire, where volunteers have already surveyed hundreds of Grade II listed buildings using our simple survey app.

We marked the launch with two public information events at Erewash Museum and Morley Retreat, welcoming local residents, heritage supporters and partner organisations keen to get involved.

Attendees heard about the Trust’s work, the aims of the B@R project, and how the app - developed by the West Midlands Historic Buildings Trust with support from Historic England - helps volunteers complete quick, practical condition surveys.

At Morley Retreat, guests also enjoyed a short talk from owner Jim Campbell, who shared the building’s journey from at-risk site to restored scientific facility; a great example of what this kind of work can achieve.

Volunteers received hands-on training and support to get started on the day. The project is designed to be flexible and accessible: surveys take only minutes, no prior experience is needed, and every contribution counts - whether you complete one survey or many.

We’re delighted by the number of new Citizen Surveyors already out in Erewash recording the condition of historic buildings, even in challenging weather, and look forward to sharing progress soon.

If you’d like to take part, contact:volunteers@derbyshirehistoricbuildingstrust.org.uk

This project is supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.