International Outrage Over Sale Of Historic Residence

International Outrage Over Sale Of Historic Residence

From the ruins of earthquake-ravished Christchurch, New Zealand, that along with the tragic loss of life are hundreds of destroyed historic buildings, news of the sale of Tymperleys, the historic residence of Sir William Gilberd, royal physician to Queen Elizabeth 1st, and 15th century scientist regarded as the ‘father of electricity’, being sold by the UK’s Colchester Council has left local resident and descendent Chris Gilberd outraged.

“I can understand the economic reality of the situation”. Said Mr Gilberd, “But what I do not understand or accept is the undue haste (submissions must be in by January 12th), particularly bearing in mind a bid by a local group who want to turn Tymperelys into a museum. Colchester Council's decision to abandon its historic heritage will have an impact far wider than its town borders.”

The Tymperleys Community Project is run by a group of concerned Colcestrians, who are urgently putting together a bid to keep the historic residence, built in 1450, open to the public.

Mr Will Quince a member of the group said they would aim to use the building to house an exhibition celebrating the life of renowned Colchester scientist, William Gilberd.

He added: “We also want to enhance the house’s historical significance and encourage its use by schoolchildren.”

The building was bequeathed by philanthropist Bernard Mason to the town of Colchester in 1969.

News of the bid is spreading with rock star legend, Queen Guitarist Brian May taking time out of the holiday period to send words of support and encouragement to the group.

Colchester Council has put the Grade II* listed Tymperleys on the market, inviting bids of at least £250,000 for a 125-year lease.

As an alternative, it is offering the option of a 20-year lease for a higher rent, but no purchase fee.

“It would be a tragedy if Tymperleys is lost to the public for the next 125 years” said Mr Gilberd .

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