Clandon Park House fire: Designers shortlisted for rebuild

Clandon Park House was reduced to a shell by the fire

The National Trust has announced the design teams shortlisted to rebuild an 18th Century mansion destroyed by fire.

Sixty teams submitted plans for Clandon Park House in Surrey, which was reduced to a charred shell in 2015.

The National Trust has announced a shortlist of six teams, as well as the names of those on the jury, which will make a final decision after a public consultation over the summer.

Building work is expected to begin by early 2019, the National Trust said.

The Marble Hall is one of the rooms the National Trust wants to restore

Sculptor John Michael Rysbrack's marble chimney pieces and over mantels survived in the Marble Hall

The National Trust said it wanted plans to combine restoring state rooms in the Grade I-listed building with new galleries and visitor spaces.

Sandy Nairne, who is chairman of the jury, said: "We received an excellent set of submissions, offering many fascinating collaborations and partnerships.

"The shortlist represents a collection of great talent from the UK and abroad.

"The teams that were selected had thoroughly analysed the conservation issues and design opportunities, and proposed thoughtful and creative approaches."

The six shortlisted teams will create concept designs which will go on public display in the late summer, The winning team is due to be announced in early autumn, the National Trust said.

The trust said the high-profile project had a £30m construction value.