Public access to new heights

Chester Cathedral has stood at the heart of the city for almost 1,000 years. It is believed to have started its life as a church in the eighth century. Since 2013, we have carried out dozens of individual projects – large and small, intricate and routine – across the Cathedral’s Grade I-listed buildings.

DIA was asked to design and implement alterations to enable public access to the cathedral’s triforium and the tower roof. New balustrades, viewing platforms, lighting, staircases and handrails were installed in order to allow safe visitor access to a high-level tour of the cathedral. Previously unseen areas have been opened up, and the new interventions have been designed to integrate with and complement the historic fabric of the building. The work was undertaken in collaboration with an interpretation consultant to provide an enhanced visitor experience.