Several of Teabridge’s best-known heritage buildings are still relying on traditional brass keys for some older entrances, storage rooms and service areas, despite more modern security systems being installed elsewhere.
The Pump Rooms, the Teabridge Historical Society and a number of privately owned historic properties continue to use original locking mechanisms in parts of their buildings.
According to local conservation contractors, replacing these older locks is not always straightforward, particularly where doors, fittings or stonework are protected as part of a building’s historic fabric.
One contractor working in the village said that some of the keys still in use are “surprisingly substantial” compared with modern house keys.
“They’re often large brass keys with very distinctive cuts,” he said. “Some have been in use for decades.”
The issue has attracted fresh attention as preparations for Tea Week bring increased activity to several heritage locations across the village.
Temporary access has been granted to staff, volunteers and contractors at a number of sites while event preparations and maintenance work continue.
Residents have been reminded that any unidentified keys found around heritage buildings should be handed in rather than tested in nearby locks.
No security breaches have been reported.