Simon Friend of Red Earth Developments, owner of the landmark redevelopment of The Yealm, knows a thing or two about Wyvern – a winged, two-legged Chimera dragon with a barbed tail. 

He commissioned local historical monuments and buildings restoration specialist, Guy Marsh based in Chulmleigh, to repair six 100-year old dragons to reinstate them on the roof in a ‘topping out’ ceremony at the former Yealm Hotel situated in the heart of the picturesque twin riverside villages of Newton Ferrers and Noss Mayo. 

He said:  “The dragons are earthenware terracotta and likely date from when the hotel was first built in 1898, so this is a historical and special tribute.”

Picture Caption: Nick England – Director Devon Contractors with  Simon Friend – Red Earth Developments and one of the restored dragons

The independent builders are well advanced on the three new builds of this project, and refurbishment of the former hotel is progressing well with internal fitout works now commencing on some of the floors.  Construction is on target for completion in the autumn. 

Nick England – Director /Contracts Manager - Devon Contractors said: “Converting an old building is always very challenging, particularly with the structural make-up unknown until we start opening  this up, and the original roof was also in a very poor state of repair.” 

He adds: “Simon Friend has a wealth of experience in the development process and our working relationship with the client has been excellent.  He’s very hands-on and knows exactly what he wants and gives clear direction. We’ve been delighted to work on such a prestigious project in an outstanding location.”

Grainge Architects are leading the design on this project, having worked from initial conception, through the planning process and to production of construction information. 

Director James Brookes, Director - Grainge Architects comments: “We have really enjoyed working on such an innovative project in a beautiful setting, harmonising the design with the surrounding landscape in keeping within this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Simon has been a joy to work with as a client and it has been refreshing to work with someone who embraces the importance of attention to detail.” 

Plymouth firm QSPM Consultants LLP are the Contract Administrator and Quantity Surveyors for this project. 

Gareth Steventon - Partner said:  “As a practice we are very pleased to be associated with this high-profile project. Having worked with the developer Simon Friend for over 10 years, we have grown to know, and understand his development raison d’etre of delivering quality with both panache and sensitivity.  We are very excited that Noss will once again regain the delightful and locally iconic former hotel safely to its skyline, lovingly restored and remodelled to provide luxurious homes with some of the most stunning views in Devon.” 

Simon Friend concluded: “We are taking great care to retain or replicate as many original features as we can, for instance the ornate zinc cornicing and of course the dragons – which should now be good for another 100 years of looking out across this illustrious harbour. I am delighted with the work of the main contractor Devon Contractors and all the consultants who have really taken on board the sensitive restoration works to the old hotel, as well as being fully at ease with the construction of the demanding designs of the new build elements.” 

For more information visit: www.theyealm.co.uk