A preliminary archaeological survey was carried out in 2000. However this had to be limited to structural recording; internal excavation was impossible because of the danger of falling masonry and would have to take place once stabilisation of the structure had been carried out during restoration.

A visit from an H.S. architect took place in late November of 2000 and his advisory report was received at the end of April 2001. The response to this was somewhat delayed and a final application was not filed with H.S. until April 2002.

The grant application went before the H.S. Historic Buildings Grant Committee on the 16th August 2002 and an indicative offer of a 33% grant towards grant-eligible elements of the restoration was made shortly afterwards. Early in 2003, full tender documents were issued and a contractor was appointed in May 2003.