EDC Clocktower, Grimsby
Conservation Masonry | Complex Masonry | Stone Carving | Lime Mortars | Specialist Subcontractor
Specialist stonemasonry subcontract for the conservation of the Grade II listed clock tower. The project included complex structural masonry repairs around the historic clock faces, the replacement of carved stonework and masonry, brick repairs and traditional lime repointing. Delivered in collaboration with the main contractor and specialist clockmakers, the programme required close coordination to integrate the conservation of the masonry with the dismantling, restoration and reinstatement of the historic clock mechanism.
Upper parapet and pinnacles assessed for conservation works.
Structural Masonry
The principal repairs centred on the west elevation, where extensive deterioration around the clock surrounds required temporary support, phased dismantling and the sequential rebuilding of the masonry. The work demanded careful setting out and structural understanding to ensure stability was maintained throughout the repair process while retaining as much original fabric as possible.
Replacement stones were identified and marked (and stabilised) during the detailed condition survey.
Historic school inscription prior to conservation works.
Complex Masonry & Stone Carving
Detailed recording and site templating established the precise geometry of the existing masonry before replacement stones were produced in the workshop. New pinnacles, hood moulds, cornices and other carved architectural details were worked by hand using traditional methods, trial-fitted where necessary and carefully integrated into the reconstructed masonry.
Newly masoned replacement stonework supported by temporary timber supports.
The restored clock face reinstated within the repaired masonry surround.
The replacement carving was developed from the surviving traces of the original detail using traditional clay modelling.
Replacement carving integrated with the surviving historic masonry and brickwork.
Conservation & Coordination
The programme was undertaken alongside the conservation of the historic clock dials and mechanisms. Close coordination between the project team, clockmakers and masonry specialists ensured each phase of work progressed in the correct sequence, allowing the repaired masonry and restored clock faces to be reinstated accurately while safeguarding the character and significance of the historic structure.
Replacement stone capping installed above the surviving original carved detail.
The conservation works revealed as the scaffold was dismantled.
