12/5/2008Tolbooth Steeple needs £200k to repair cracks
GLASGOW'S historic Tolbooth Steeple is to undergo repair work after cracks were discovered in the structure.
The 126ft-high steeple, which in medieval times witnessed hangings of witches, thieves and murderers, stands in Glasgow Cross and was built in 1636.
A recent survey showed cracked lintels on the building's south face, as well as the need for masonry, guttering and lead repairs.
It is hoped the work, estimated to cost around £200,000, will be completed by the end of the summer.
The steeple is one of the oldest buildings in Glasgow and towered over the former Tolbooth which once served as a prison and town hall.
Liz Davidson, of Merchant City Townscape Heritage Initiative, described it as "one of the most iconic buildings in the area."
She said every building in the Merchant City was surveyed a few years ago.
She added: "Through time and because of where it stands, it has suffered a bit of wear and tear.
"It was attached to another building, the Tontine, and there is a lot of traffic going past it on a daily basis.
"We have a railway underground at the base of the steeple and heavy traffic thundering past every day.
"The survey revealed cracks at the steeple base which we would rather deal with now.
"The work is not urgent but the damage will only get worse.
"We are putting together a programme for the repairs. It may be that, rather than having scaffolding, it can be done by someone abseiling down the side."
She said the work was not complicated but was difficult because the steeple stands in the middle of a busy road.
The work, which is expected to last between four to five weeks, will also have to be carried out by the end of the summer as the cracks will be filled in using a mixture which cannot be exposed to frost.
It is an, A Listed Ancient Monument, and part of the funding for the repair project will be provided by Glasgow City Council.