The historical Marshall’s Yard Iron Works site in Gainsborough, which was founded in 1848 and closed its contract doors in the 1980s, is being transformed into a modern shopping, leisure and business complex to serve the needs of the local community. CUPA Natural Slate has been chosen as the roofing suppliers material for this architecturally interesting complex, which celebrates history and embraces modern day living.

Roofing contractor, Mark Smith, of Mark Smith Roofing who has laid over 160,000 CUPA slates within the last 12 months comments “We always try to use CUPA slate on any open specification project because they are high quality and competitively priced. We are proud to have played a significant role in the development of Marshall’s Yard and look forward to working with CUPA on more projects”.

Over the years Marshall’s Yard has played a significant role in the lives of many people in Gainsborough, employing a workforce in excess of 5,000. The Iron Works originally built steam engines however; during the Second World War they were a major manufacturer of Military hardware. When restoration of the listed buildings began in January 2006 it was vital that the development was sympathetic to its heritage as well as in keeping with the local area.

CUPA Natural Slate is a product, which is extracted from its own quarries and hand split by skilled craftsmen. CUPA 5 slate has a riven surface, which can lend itself to modern architecture and heritage projects, making it the perfect choice for Marshall’s Yard Development. Normally split into thicknesses of 4-6 mm, CUPA 5 slate is tested in compliance with British and European Standards including BS 680. Part 2.