Today saw a pivotal moment in the history of one of Sudbury’s landmarks when 25 descendants of Robert Mattingly gathered together to mark the handover of the new building that replaced the 19th century Goldsmith’s Mansion, which was razed to the ground by fire in September 2015.
For the last 14 months, Rose Builders has been reconstructing the building at 41-42 Market Hill. It has been owned by the Mattingly family since 1874 when Robert Mattingly purchased the property as a gentleman’s outfitters.
Phil Branton, Director at Wincer Kievenaar Architects explained the thinking behind the design of the new building. “We were keen to meet the wishes of the Mattingly family who wanted a replacement building that was traditional and echoed the appearance of the original structure.
“From our point of view, there is great satisfaction from seeing unique aspects of the previous building retained, such as the roundel which mimics the old, but with the current date and the original initials ‘RM’. Also, the façade uses bricks cast from the moulds of the old bricks reclaimed after the fire by Bulmer Brick & Tile.
Steven Rose, MD at Rose Builders added: “The build has gone smoothly, and members of the local community have been excited watching things take shape. If we’re to go by the comments from passers-by, they’re very pleased with the look of the new building.
Joined by the Mayor of Sudbury, Sue Ayres, and members of the construction team, the occasion was made particularly memorable as it’s the first time so many members of the Mattingly family have been together at the same time in the building.
Roger Mattingly and Christina Manning, great grandchildren of Robert Mattingly are delighted with the result. “We wanted to ensure that the new building was in keeping with its setting in the town centre and retained its original characteristics, especially from the front. The result is more than we could have hoped for.”
Marketed by Fenn Wright and Boydens, the building when completed at the end of December will house a retail unit and six residential apartments for rent.