Local thatcher finishes new homes at Priory Fields
03 Nov 2020

Nigel Bunce Master Thatcher from Muchelney, near Langport has just finished thatching two new-build properties at Bovis Homes’ Priory Fields development in Wells. The development has been sensitively designed to complement the surrounding area and will showcase two thatched homes, as well as local stone. Nigel, 49, has been a master thatcher for 31 years and commented: “I absolutely love my job. Seeing the transformation take place when the roof goes on is wonderful, as you witness such a change to the building in a relatively short amount of time.” He added: “I have two people working for me and I enjoy passing on my knowledge and experience to them to help keep the craft alive. I’ve worked on a range of projects in the past from historic buildings to more contemporary developments and having a respect for the traditional methods, while embracing new techniques is so important. It’s been great to thatch some new homes and they look really characterful.” Nigel advised it typically takes three to six weeks to complete a property depending on its size and design. He’s used water reed for the thatch, plus Dutch tiles to cap the top. Mick Arnold, construction director at Bovis Homes, commented: “This is the first development where Bovis has used thatch to roof a property. Nigel grows his own wheat reed and is a member of Somerset Master Thatcher’s Association and The National Thatching Straw Growers Association, so his passion for the craft was apparent and we were keen to work with him from the outset. He’s very skilled and the thatched roofs at Priory Fields add real character, while also providing excellent insulation. “Using a sustainable and traditional construction method ensures the new homes blend into their surrounding environment and it’s great to see the thatched homes completed.” Named after the old railway station on the Strawberry Line and located off Wookey Hole Road, Priory Fields currently features two bedroom homes from £200,000 using the discount market home scheme, up to £468,500 for a large detached four bedroom family home. To book an appointment contact the sales team on 01749 578003 or for more information on development visit www.bovishomes.co.uk For more information on Nigel Bunce Master Thatcher visit: www.nigelbuncethatcher.co.uk

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Local thatcher finishes new homes at Priory Fields 03 Nov 2020

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Local thatcher finishes new homes at Priory Fields
03 Nov 2020