An iconic 150ft Bournemouth clock tower has been restored as part of the town’s £37 million college redevelopment.
The Grade II-listed Clocktower Building, which dates back to 1910, has undergone a £12 million restoration alongside the construction of Bournemouth and Poole College’s new Compass Building.
The work has seen specialist craftsmen and stonemasons return the historic tower to its former glory, with the restoration expected to keep it in operation until at least its 200th anniversary in 2113.
An initial drone survey catalogued extensive damage to the structure, caused by more than a century of exposure to the weather and salty sea air.
Conservation contractor Stonewest then carried out extensive façade cleaning, while expert masons rebuilt four of the tower’s column heads, known as capitals.
The intricate features, including their scrolled shoulders and flowered tulip details, were carefully recreated in Purbeck stone to match the original designs.
Stonemason Nathan Smith, who worked on the restoration, said the project had also provided an opportunity to preserve traditional skills.
He said: “Stonemasonry as a trade is in decline, so it is great to keep it alive on this building, especially where so many tradespeople such as construction workers are trained.”
Although the clock tower formed part of the original college building, the clock and bell were added in 1919.
They were donated by Anne Croft, the mother of MP Henry Croft, as a gift to the town.
The restoration has been carried out alongside the college’s new £37 million Compass Building, which opens to students on September 2 following more than two years of construction.
The four-storey building provides facilities for up to 1,000 students studying subjects including business, catering and hospitality, digital and computing, hair and beauty, media, sport, travel and tourism and uniformed public services.
Phil Sayles, principal of Bournemouth and Poole College, said the project represented an investment in both the future of its students and the wider community.
He said: “The historic Grade II Listed Clocktower Building, which dominates the corner of our site, has had a heritage restoration that will keep it in operation at least until its 200th anniversary, in 2113.”
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