A historic King’s Lynn building targeted by lead thieves is installing hi-tech security to try and keep the roof intact.
The 15th-century Red Mount chapel was hit for a second time last autumn when lead was stripped from the roof and damage caused to the guttering and brickwork. A similar theft took place at the chapel a couple of years previously and now new security measures are being introduced.
The Grade I listed building, also a scheduled ancient monument, was refurbished three years ago at a cost of £250,000 as part of a major regeneration scheme of The Walks which was backed by Lottery cash of £4.3m.
Although the lead thefts have mostly been covered by insurance, West Norfolk Council is determined to call a halt to the problem. Both times the roof was stripped, some of the lead was recovered as it had been hidden nearby for collection later — but it could not be re-used on Red Mount because of the damage.
Scaffolding surrounding the prominent building is due to be removed in the next few days as the latest repairs have now been completed. But the new lead is covered in a security product which can’t be seen but can be irrefutable identified. The liquid, called SmartWater, is virtually impossible to remove and contains a forensic code so police know exactly where it came from.
Elizabeth Nockolds, the council’s portfolio holder for sport, arts and open spaces, said: “It is a beautiful building and the thieves cause damage apart from taking the lead. It is such a shame and although we are insured, there is still an element of public money involved. We have been talking to the police about the best way of protecting the lead and SmartWater is a good deterrent,” she added.