Ripon – Saint Mary Magdalen: access alterations

Ripon - Saint Mary Magdalen: access alterations

The Chapel of the Hospital of St Mary Magdalen, Ripon

Founded early in the 12thC by Archbishop Thurstan, the Hospital was originally outside the city, away from other buildings.  Nowadays all that is left of the original Hospital is the Chapel, sitting in what is now the residential outskirts of the City with farmland and the by-pass beyond.  This lovely building is one of only three Grade I buildings in Ripon.

When David became inspecting architect, access into the chapel was via a double step and in such a small space, ramps are so very intrusive.  We investigated and made proposals to reduce the door threshold and re-grade the external path.  This has proved a success and removed the need for a ramp.