St John the Evangelist, Friern Barnet
Located in the London Borough of Barnet, St John the Evangelist is a Grade II* listed Anglican church and one of North London's finest examples of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture. Designed by the distinguished architect John Loughborough Pearson, with construction continuing under his son, Frank Loughborough Pearson, the church is recognised for its striking stonework, vaulted interiors and historic significance.
As with many historic buildings, preserving the original fabric while ensuring the structure remains weatherproof presents a unique set of challenges. Spotlight Construction was appointed to undertake specialist roofing and restoration works to sections of the church, delivering repairs that would protect the building for the future while respecting its architectural and historic importance.
Scaffolding & Safe Access
To enable the restoration works to be carried out safely, a comprehensive scaffold system was erected to provide secure access to the church roof, turret and other high-level working areas. The scaffold was carefully designed to accommodate the complex roof geometry while allowing works to be completed efficiently and with minimal impact on the surrounding site.
Roof Restoration Works
Once access was established, the existing roof coverings were carefully removed to allow a full inspection of the underlying timber roof structure. Following inspection, new roofing felt and battens were installed before the roof was re-covered using matching roof tiles, ensuring the completed works remained sympathetic to the church's original appearance. New lead flashings were also installed to improve weather resistance, while high-level guttering was inspected as part of the restoration works.
Lightning Protection
Alongside the roofing works, our team carried out remedial works to the existing lightning protection system. The system was inspected, repaired where necessary and brought back into full working order to help protect the church from lightning strikes while supporting ongoing compliance with current standards.
Heritage Building Restoration
As a Grade II* listed building, preserving the church's historic character was central to every stage of the project. All works were completed using sympathetic restoration techniques and carefully selected materials to ensure the repairs blended seamlessly with the original fabric of the building, maintaining both its architectural significance and long-term durability.
Outcome
The completed project has restored the integrity of the church's roof while protecting one of Barnet's most significant historic landmarks for the future. Through a combination of specialist roofing repairs, replacement leadwork and lightning protection remedial works, Spotlight Construction delivered a long-lasting solution that enhances the building's resilience against the elements while remaining faithful to its original design.
Working on listed buildings requires an understanding of both traditional construction methods and modern conservation practices. By combining specialist knowledge with careful attention to detail, our team was able to complete the works to a high standard while minimising disruption and preserving the architectural character that makes St John the Evangelist such an important part of the local heritage.
Trusted Expertise for Every Project
From historic buildings to modern properties, Spotlight Construction delivers specialist roofing, restoration and access solutions with a focus on quality, safety and long-term performance.
