The Architecture group considered a number alternatives for the development of the Abbey. Some of the proposals falling under the 3^rd category of 'full development' appear at the bottom of this page.

1. Minimum intervention

The Abbey would remain as it exists at the present. Access would remain by request to interested parties, the key kept with a nearby trustee.

2. Simple display of wall paintings

The nave and north range of the Abbey would be made safe but not roofed or otherwise altered.  The chancel would be made weatherproof and an entry introduced before the chancel arch to buffer the chancel from rapid changes in temperature and humidity.  Small groups of guided visitors could then be allowed access to see the chancel and its paintings in comfort.

3. Full development as a visitor attraction

The nave would be roofed, with several different options, eg. A minimal glass envelope, or a re-creation of a timber and slate roof, etc.  The nave would then serve as an exhibition space, holding information about the Abbey, the paintings, the history of the site, etc.
The nave would form a valuable climatic buffer to the sensitive chancel area, helping to protect the paintings by maintaining their temperature and humididty at a more constant level.  Passive energy systems could be used to keep the temperature of the chancel at 1 or 2 degrees higher, and the humidity lower, than the exterior.  These systems could involve solar gain or the use of suction from the leeward side of the building. The chancel would have its weatherproofing improved, ie. Making the roof watertight, improving the traditional harling to keep the interior dry, etc.  The introduction of a sympathetic lighting system would also be improtant.
The northern area of the building could be completed once more, using either modern or more traditional methods. The upper level could be reinstated or left as a single storey.  This space would form an office, shop, etc.
Access to the site must respect the graveyard and its continued use.  The least disruptive route from the road to the Abbey would run along the north side of the Abbey and in through the west door.  This would also serve to keep access separate from everyday access to the Church and the School.
This option would require the creation of posts for a warden or guide, and possibly a seasonal shop assistant.

4. Redevelopment of the Abbey as a consecrated church

Development of the Abbey in this case would be to allow its use as a church for, eg. the celebrationof Mass on special occasions.  As before, the nave would be roofed and the building made weathertight.  The northern range could be reinstated as a sacristy, with covered access from the north wall of the nave.  Lighting, seating and music facilities would be introduced.  Since this option would combine tourist and church-going requirements, a display of visitor information could be provided at the back of the nave, as occurs in many churches.