ANNE Hathaway’s Cottage is set to undergo chimney repairs.
The middle red-brick chimney of Shakespeare’s wife’s family home in Shottery was last repaired in the late 17th century.
And now specialists plan to secure the crumbling chimney for the next 500 years,using original and new bricks handmade to match.
Repairs will also be made to one set of steps, damaged by pests and damp, at the front of the cottage.
The building – cared for by The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust – will be open to visitors as usual throughout the conservation work.
Property spokeswoman Gemma McGlinchey said: “We constantly monitor the structure of the cottage and recently noticed that the mortar on the chimney has broken down and become weak. Working with heritage building conservation specialists and archaeologists we’re confident the remedial works will be carried out to the highest standard with minimal disruption to visitors, ensuring that the cottage is conserved for the next 500 years.”
