Local thatcher finishes new homes at Blackmore Meadows

- 12 Aug 20

Thatched home at Blackmore Meadows 
Paul Swannack Master Thatchers from Gillingham has just finished thatching two new-build properties at Bovis Homes’ Blackmore Meadows development on the edge of Stalbridge.

The development of 120 homes has been sensitively designed to complement the surrounding area and will showcase two thatched homes, as well as local stone.

Paul Swannack has been a master thatcher for 17 years and commented: “It’s very rare to be asked to thatch a new home so it’s wonderful to see the thatch roof take on a new look.”

Paul advised it typically takes four to six weeks to complete a property depending on its size and the access. He’s used water reed for the thatch, plus wheat straw from Winkleigh for the ridge.

Paul Swannack Master Thatchers 
He added: “It’s a great craft and when I’m up on the roof, looking out at the views over the countryside, it’s pretty incredible. It’s a fantastic way of life and you feel such pride when you see a home beautifully thatched – it’s complete job satisfaction!”

Gareth Neale, construction director at Bovis Homes, commented: “This is only the second development where Bovis has used thatch to roof a property. Paul is a great craftsman and the thatched rooves not only look characterful but they’re sustainable and provide excellent insulation. His attention to detail is phenomenal and it’s brilliant to be using a traditional construction method, especially when it ensures the homes blend into their surrounding environment. It’s great to see the thatched homes completed.”

There are currently three and four bedroom homes available at Blackmore Meadows from £320,000. To book an appointment contact the sales team on 01963 836000 or for more information on the development visit www.bovishomes.co.uk

To watch a video of Paul talking about the art of thatching visit: https://youtu.be/2f6_U2RCLgQ and for more details on Paul Swannack Master Thatchers visit www.thatchingdorset.co.uk 

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