The Little Chapel
The Little Chapel, located in Les Vauxbelets valley, St. Andrew, Guernsey, was built by Brother Déodat between 1914 and 1930, with embellishments continuing until 1965. CCD undertook works to secure the structural stability of this iconic site and ensure its longevity for future generations.
- Category: heritage
Since 2005, consulting engineers had monitored cracks and detected ongoing movement, indicating the need for intervention. In 2014, sections of the external ceramic and cement render were carefully removed to inspect the structural core, and a trial excavation revealed a substantial void beneath the right-hand side of the entrance step. The base of the wall was unsupported, and soil erosion had caused gradual subsidence of the step and pillar. Similarly, the wall at the base of the main staircase under the altar was found to be on poor ground.
Re-stabilisation works were undertaken in these key areas using mass-fill concrete underpinning, carried out in small bays to avoid further damage. Additional works included securing the entrance pillars, arch and spire, repairing movement cracks, and renewing the roof finish to prevent moisture ingress.
These carefully considered interventions have safeguarded the chapel’s structural integrity and ensured that this unique heritage site continues to inspire visitors for generations to come.
