Repairing Wellington Monument project

2021

Latest project updates

Placing the memories inside the wall

As the repair works came to an end, we gave visitors and those who have a connection with this special place the opportunity to leave a memento at the monument. We received many letters, photos and poems from the local community and further afield. The memories and letters were placed in the heart of the monument and will remain there long into the future.

New stonework is revealed

As the scaffolding was taken down it revealed a patchwork of new stones. This lighter coloured stone will gradually turn grey just like the surrounding stones. Each new stone has been individually tooled by a team of specialist stonemasons.

2019

Work begins

Scaffolding is complete

The scaffolding has now been completed by Apex scaffolding. It took 10 weeks for the construction to be completed with approximately 52,000 feet of tubing.

Work to repair Wellington Monument begins

During October the team will begin erecting the scaffolding which will be in place for the duration of the project. The scaffolding has been specially designed for the monument and will be freestanding to ensure the structure is protected. The plans include a viewing platform at 8 metres high for visitors to experience the view towards the Quantock Hills.

Contractor chosen for repair work

The repair work is being conducted by specialist contractor Sally Strachey Historic Conservation. They have over 30 years’ experience in the repair and conservation of historic and architectural stonework.

Graffiti project

Over the past 200 years some visitors to the monument have left their mark on it. This historic graffiti represents a window into the past and it is important that it is not lost. A local volunteer has been working to record the names on the lower part of the monument. These messages will be retained for future generations and the Wellington Museum has agreed to hold these records for all to view.

2018

Where it all started

Technical surveys and reports

Following several years of technical surveys on the structure of the monument, the project engineer and architect have developed the complex repair programme. This has involved drawings being prepared that map each individual stone on the monument and the repair action it needs.

Community fundraising begins

In October 2018 we announced a commitment to securing the future of the monument. We could not reach this ambitious target without the help of the local community. The Community Fundraising and Engagement Officer has been promoting the appeal and working with the community to ensure vital funds are raised.