Purcell is leading a conservation and repair project, which will include a programme of research and conservation to the ‘crown of glass’, the cathedral’s distinctive lantern. The lantern is a highly significant piece of pioneering 20th century design which utilised an innovative mix of stained glass fragments supported by epoxy resin, known as ‘dalle de verre’. It was designed and made by artists John Piper and Patrick Reyntiens, who also collaborated on the new Coventry Cathedral. For the restoration work, it is vital to preserve as much existing material as is technically possible. The project team has already undertaken extensive analysis and testing to understand the condition and stability of the glass and resin. The next steps are to introduce environmental and water monitoring systems, upgrade all of the maintenance access locations to facilitate internal inspections and to prepare sample panels for laboratory testing. Purcell’s heritage experts have also produced a conservation statement for the funding application and are planning to produce a conservation management plan for the whole site.