Matthew Dyer

Background

About Matthew Dyer

It is well documented that conserving our historic environment can bring social, cultural, and economic benefits, and how we conserve and develop it is a strong indicator of civic pride and sense of place. In addition to these benefits, we are now increasingly aware that our built heritage also has a vital role to play in the journey toward a low carbon future. A shift to a whole life approach to measuring carbon has demonstrated that a typical historic building will emit less carbon by 2050 than a comparative new building or demolishing a historic building and replacing it. As Head of Conservation at Austin-Smith:Lord I believe that to achieve all these benefits, it is imperative that change is sympathetically and responsibly implemented. Change is inevitable but must be underpinned by an understanding of heritage value and the ways that historic building fabric was built to perform. We have the expertise to unlock the potential of historic buildings, while avoiding the unintended and damaging consequences that inappropriate retrofit can bring. Many of our projects involve complex funding packages that we also advise on. I am presently working to create sustainable futures for projects across the UK including: Old College, Aberystwyth, a £30 million lottery project to restore and adapt a Grade I complex of neo-Gothic university buildings to form a cultural complex overlooking Cardigan Bay. The conservation strategy has been underpinned by our Conservation Management Plan (CMP) and an advanced understanding of the mechanisms of decay. Newport Transporter Bridge, a £10 million lottery project to conserve a Grade I listed industrial icon. The structural engineering repair strategy has been underpinned by our CMP. Woodchester Convent, a project to redevelop a derelict Grade II listed derelict convent as a major hotel and leisure destination set within 26 acres of Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. If you are embarking on a project involving an historic building of any kind or wish to discuss issues associated with the historic environment, please get in touch at matthew.dyer@austinsmithlord.com."I have always found Matthew to be a courteous and professional person who I believe has the client’s best interest at heart. He has always provided us with a high level of knowledge and expertise on conservation matters. It has been a pleasure working with him and I would have no hesitation recommending him to others." Kirk Williams, Senior Building Surveyor, Archdiocese of Liverpool