Protecting a historic site of remembrance and resilience
Overview
In 2025, BLW Insurance Brokers secured specialist insurance cover for the restoration and protection of the iconic Dryfesdale Church building, which the client is transforming into a Memorial Museum.
The building, a B-listed landmark in the town centre, had been closed due to structural deterioration and lacked insurance coverage, leaving the project exposed to significant financial risk at a critical stage of its redevelopment.
Working closely with the Client and Aviva’s Glasgow underwriting team, BLW designed a tailored insurance programme that enabled restoration work to proceed and safeguarded a site of international historical significance.
The Client
The Client has undertaken an ambitious project to restore the former Church and convert it into a permanent museum.
The museum will welcome visitors from around the world, researchers and members of the public seeking to understand its legacy and to promote education, remembrance and community understanding.
The Challenge
A complex and sensitive heritage risk
When BLW was first contacted, the project faced several significant challenges:
- No existing insurance cover
The property had been purchased by the Client as part of a mission to save the building from deterioration. At the time of acquisition, the property was uninsured. - A deteriorating historic structure
The church had suffered years of water ingress and structural damage after being closed for safety reasons. Restoration and stabilisation works were required before the building could safely reopen. - Listed heritage status
As a B-listed building with intricate stonework, stained glass and historic interiors, the reinstatement costs and repair requirements were significantly higher than for a standard commercial property.
An independent survey estimated the reinstatement value at approximately £10 million, reflecting the cost of reconstructing the building and preserving its historic architectural features. - An emotionally significant site
Beyond its physical structure, the church represents a place of remembrance. The insurance placement, therefore, required both sensitivity and technical expertise.
The Broker’s Approach
Building the submission
BLW CEO Brett Sainty first became involved after receiving a call from the Listed Property Owners Club, which introduced the project.
After initial discussions with the Client, BLW began developing a comprehensive submission to help insurers properly understand both the risk and the significance of the site.
This involved:
- Detailed property documentation and architectural information
- Reinstatement cost assessment reports
- Structural and conservation plans
- Design risk management documentation for restoration works
- Information on the Client’s governance and long-term stewardship plans
The submission carefully explained not only the building’s physical characteristics but also its purpose and long-term vision.
This narrative context helped underwriters understand that the project was supported by professional advisors, conservation architects and a structured restoration programme.
Collaboration with Insurers
Aviva’s Glasgow underwriting team
Given the complexity of the risk, BLW worked closely with Aviva’s Glasgow office to structure a tailored insurance programme that could support the restoration process.
The final placement included:
- Material damage cover structured around heritage property risks
- Specialist terms reflecting the building’s current condition
- Liability cover appropriate for restoration works and future public use
- A phased insurance structure aligned with the restoration programme
The initial recommendation included coverage for core perils, such as fire and associated risks, as well as public liability protection.
This collaborative underwriting approach ensured that protection was in place while restoration and stabilisation work progressed.
Underwriting Perspective
Christine Devins, Senior Trading Underwriter at Aviva, highlighted the quality of the submission:
“From the outset, this submission stood out for its clarity and depth. Brett presented a comprehensive and thoughtful picture of the site, not just its physical characteristics but also the sense of responsibility and stewardship that surrounds it.
The memorial carries an extraordinary legacy, and that sensitivity was evident throughout the presentation. The information we received was detailed, well organised and conveyed a real understanding of the building’s importance to the community and to those it commemorates.
It was clear that the ongoing care for the property is approached with professionalism, respect and long-term thinking. That gave us great confidence when underwriting the risk.”
The Outcome
The successful placement delivered several critical outcomes:
Protection for a historic landmark
The former Church now has insurance cover appropriate for its heritage status and restoration programme.
Enabling restoration work
With insurance in place, the Client was able to proceed with structural stabilisation and repair works necessary to preserve the building.
Safeguarding a global memorial site
The insurance programme protects not only the physical structure but also the future of a museum dedicated to remembrance, education and community reflection.
Client Perspective
The Client’s UK Executive Director commented:
“We needed a broker who would understand the very specific and complex needs of our project. From our first meeting with Brett, we knew we were in safe hands.
He listened carefully, offered expert advice, found considerable savings and kept us informed every step of the way. His professionalism, patience and responsiveness were exceptional.
BLW delivered our policies in record time and gave us the confidence to move forward knowing this historic property was fully protected.”
A Model for Heritage Risk Protection
The project demonstrates the important role that specialist insurance brokers can play in protecting historic buildings and enabling community projects.
By combining technical insurance expertise with collaborative underwriting and a deep understanding of the client’s mission, BLW helped secure the future of a building that represents remembrance, resilience and compassion.
As restoration continues, the church will reopen as a place where visitors from across the world can learn about the local community’s history and the enduring legacy of those affected by the tragedy.
Award-Winning Placement
In March 2026, this placement was recognised as Placement of the Year at the National Insurance Awards.
It is an award BLW take seriously. The National Insurance Awards represent the highest level of peer recognition in the UK broking market, and the Placement of the Year category demands genuine technical expertise, creative problem-solving, and a demonstrable difference made to a client.
To be recognised for this placement in particular means a great deal. This is not a straightforward commercial risk. It required patience, careful preparation and a real understanding of what was at stake, not just financially, but for the families, communities and visitors this project exists to serve.
Winning this award reflects the work that went into getting the detail right: the quality of the submission, the collaboration with Aviva’s underwriting team, and the commitment to finding a solution that genuinely matched the complexity and sensitivity of the risk.
For BLW, it is a proud moment.
About BLW Insurance Brokers Ltd
BLW Insurance Brokers Ltd is an independent brokerage providing specialist insurance solutions for complex, heritage and high-value properties across the UK.
BLW are also a fully accredited Lloyd’s broker. Led by CEO Brett Sainty, BLW is committed to delivering expert advice, bespoke placements and exceptional client service. Winner of 2025 Insurance Broker of the Year (Medium) at the Insurance Broker Awards.
BLW Insurance Brokers Ltd
Email: brett.sainty@blwinsurance.co.uk
Phone: 07837 411372
Website: www.blwinsurance.co.uk