Historic museum given Grade I listed status

An historic Tudor house and museum has been upgraded to Grade I listed status.

The black-and-white timber-framed Oak House, in West Bromwich, has been recognised as a building of "exceptional architectural and historic interest", Sandwell Council says.

The 16th Century building, possibly named after an old oak tree that stood nearby before it was destroyed by a fire, was originally given Grade II* listed in 1949.

Councillor Suzanne Hartwell said the building was an "important part of our local heritage" which showcased the design of the 1600s.

Historic England granted £115,332 for urgent repairs to the timber frame and lime rendered infill panels last year - which have just been completed.

The building remains on the "heritage at risk" register.

Historic England director Louise Brennan described the house as a "rare survivor" of the "once common timber framed buildings that characterised the region".

Ms Hartwell added: "Over the past three years, Sandwell Council has invested in a range of priority repairs at Oak House, in addition to the emergency repairs funded by Historic England.

"Oak House Museum is a beautiful building we can be proud of as well as a busy heritage attraction and resource serving our local communities, telling stories and providing opportunities and experiences to explore and discover."

Hartwell said the council had been investing in building repairs in addition to Historic England funding.

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