ABOVE: The arch fully restored as near as makes no difference to its original form.

When an ancient stone arch at Atlantic College in Llantwit Major was destroyed in a lorry accident, many believed it was lost forever. The centuries-old structure, a cherished feature of the historic campus, had stood proudly for generations — until one moment of impact reduced it to rubble.

But what seemed impossible was made possible thanks to the expertise and dedication of Mossfords Memorial Masons’ construction division.

ABOVE: The stone arch before the accident – a beautiful landmark in the college grounds.

ABOVE: A devestating sight – the ancient stone arch completely destroyed and seemingly impossible to repair.

Harrison Brookes

Mossfords (MS-Group Ltd)

April 2019

Acorn Property Group

Speller Metcalf

Pennant Stone

£16m

July 2017

DEVELOPER

MAIN CONTRACTOR

MATERIAL

PROJECT VALUE

DATE

A HERITAGE WORTH SAVING

The accident in April 2019 left the arch in ruins, with much of its original structure displaced or shattered. As a Grade I listed structure, every step of its restoration required meticulous planning, technical precision, and a deep respect for heritage craftsmanship.

Before any rebuilding could begin, Mossfords’ team carefully located and recovered the surviving voussoirs – the wedge-shaped stones that form the arch. Each piece was numbered, recorded, and stored to ensure historical accuracy during reconstruction.

BELOW: Beginning the paistaking task of sorting the stone before redacting it from the site and into temporary storage.

ABOVE: Arranging the salvageable stone.

ABOVE: Loading the stone onto pallets to be taken away for assessment and temporary storage.

ABOVE: A start to piecing together the stone arch.

ABOVE: Removing loose stone ready for the reconstruction process.

ABOVE: The stones were labelled on-site before placed into temporary storage. 

PRECISION & CRAFTSMANSHIP

For the stones that could not be salvaged, Mossfords’ experienced stonemasons stepped in to recreate them by hand, matching the original material and form with extraordinary attention to detail. This delicate balance of traditional techniques and modern precision ensured that the restored arch would stand true to its original character.

ABOVE & BELOW: Arranging the voussoirs on-site.

ABOVE: Meticulous labelling of the stone ensured precision and efficiency in the project.

BELOW: The site was cleared while work commenced on the salvage and restoration program back at Mossfords’ production facility.

RESTORING MORE THAN STONE

Through patience, skill, and craftsmanship, Mossfords brought the arch back to life — reviving not only a key architectural feature, but also an enduring piece of local history.

The project stands as a testament to the team’s commitment to excellence in heritage restoration and their ability to transform loss into lasting legacy.

BELOW: Reconstruction work at the site commences in welcome good weather.

ABOVE: A roundel crest that sat at the top of the arch had been broken in two. This was restored by Mossfords’ master craftsmen and refixed.

BELOW: Project complete. Given the extent of the ruin caused by the catastophic accident, Mossfords’ artisans have performed an incredible yet unnoticeable restoration – a testiment to their knowledge, experience and skills.