Final stage of clock tower repairs to begin

The final stage of work to renovate a Victorian clock tower on top of an arts centre is due to get under way.

Repairs to the roof and timber structure of Grantham Guildhall began in October, after rainwater leaked through the ceiling of the centre's ballroom during adverse weather.

The final stage of the work renovating the bell tower on the building in St Peter's Hill will commence on Sunday, South Kesteven District Council said.

Councillor Richard Cleaver said the work on the Grade II listed building had taken longer than expected due to extra "extensive repairs" being needed.

He said: "Sadly, during this work, significant issues were found with the condition of the bell turret, which has been carefully assessed by our consultant who has been working with the conservation officer, because this is a Grade II listed building.

"It requires extensive repairs that can only be safely done by removing the complete structure from the site by crane, repairing it in a workshop and then lifting it back into place to be fixed in position.

"Our experts have spent time and effort in meticulously ensuring we do a thorough renovation job on this important building to return it to tip-top condition - and in doing so to ensure it will not need further structural maintenance for many years to come."

The bell turret will be removed for repairs. The four columns which are supporting it will also be removed and any gaps left in the lead base at the bottom will be covered over, the council said.

The scaffolding will then be taken down in August after the windows have been redecorated.

Cleaver said the bell tower was expected to be "back in place next springtime".

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