Caverswall Castle – Case Study

When Caverswall Castle in Staffordshire fell vacant VPS Guardians were tasked with providing a temporary management solution to ensure the Grade-1 listed building was secure from theft, vandalism and trespassers. This moated castle surrounded by glorious Staffordshire countryside holds a rich history, and is one of only twelve moated castles in the UK. This meant the site has always attracted a great deal of interest, so VPS Guardians were brought in to limit any potential negative consequences of vacancy by protecting this impressive historic building.

• Project: Caverswall Castle
• Date Commenced: June 2019
• Client: Avinus Young
• Location: Caverswall, Staffordshire, United Kingdom

Background
Caverswall Castle is a 17th-century English mansion built within the walls of a 13th century medieval castle. The castle has had many uses over the years, as well as being a nunnery it has been owned by several families who have each carried out various renovations, ensuring that its exceptionally high standards have been maintained over the years.

Throughout its lifetime the castle has remained privately owned and hasn’t been open to the public. Public interest in the site is high, and this has been a key reason for ensuring the property is effectively protected throughout its term of vacancy, right up until the new owner takes over the site.

Our solution
Because of the unique nature of the site, and the owners instructions to secure the property in its original state without making any modifications to or causing any damage to the fabric of the property VPS offered the solution to secure the property through multiple live-in guardians.

The guardians will be accommodated in the main house and in some of its many turrets. One key advantage of protection by occupation is that there is 24-hour physical security presence on site, the residents will maintain the building whilst they are residing there and can ensure it doesn’t decay or suffer damage caused by things like water leaks or rodent infestations. In addition this solution helps combat the housing shortage in the area.

Both the surrounding community and the colourful family of peacocks who live in the garden of the castle are all very pleased with this temporary solution and the new residents of this historic moated gem! For further information about becoming a property guardian, contact us today!