Victorian Cellar

[Iyaman2024]

Good morning,

My cellar is drying out nicely after opening up blocked vents and allowing it to breathe. I want to tidy it up a bit.
I have cleared it out and given it a good sweep. I plan on storing stuff in plastic containers to relieve the clutter on the floor above.

The wall that houses the water metre is still quite damp. There is some type of plaster coming away from the stone wall.

I would like to know what it is and whether it's best to just tear it off. What, if anything, should I replace it with? The wall is an internal wall with the cellar next door.
I do have a public rainwater gulley that services four houses in the front garden close by.

I would love to hear your thoughts on what's on the wall - it is black in appearance.

Thanks,
T

 

[Nige F]

Newtonite Lath ?

 

[Iyaman2024]

Thanks. I had a quick Google/YouTube search, and it could be, as it's peeling away from the stone in one bit.

I might wait until it dries out and then pull it off.

I would like the space to look less "dungeon-like." Would you use clay paint, lime render, or neither?

I've never plastered anything in my life, but I'm willing to try!

Many thanks,
T