Market House in Ross refurbished

Ross-on-Wye’s Market House has had its clock tower painted white as part the first stage of refurbishment plans for the historic building.

Councillors commissioned the work after a survey found the need for urgent repairs on the 17th century structure.

The repair has included stripping back parts of the roof to relay tiles and replace lead to ensure the building is watertight.

Workers have also replaced decaying timber-work, removed ridge tiles for renovation and replacement, and have repaired or replaced down-pipes and guttering.

Sarah Robson, town clerk, said: “I am sure many will have been wondering what was going on behind the hoardings and mountain of scaffolding at the Market House over the last few months.

“This has been the first phase of the council’s plan to carry out renovation works to this much loved scheduled monument which is one of the jewels in Ross’ crown.

“Most of this is unseen from ground height but has been vital to protect the fabric of the building from further deterioration due to environmental damage and weather conditions.”

“There was work to be done on the clock tower too which has included some much needed decoration, so love or loathe the newly painted landmark, it’s definitely got everyone talking.”

One of the major repair tasks included the replacement of the very worn steps to the first floor.

This posed challenges when it became apparent to councillors that not replacing them all looked out of place and further consent from Historic England had to be sought for an additional step which had not been part of the original specification.

Some have criticised the timing of the project and believe it should have been done over the winter months when there were fewer visitors to the town.

“In the ideal world this would have happened, unfortunately due to the lime mortar needed with the stone masonry there were concerns if the temperature dropped it wouldn’t cure,” Ms Robson added.

“This could have caused major problems which the Council could not risk.”

The council’s working group tasked with overseeing the project says it is very impressed by the work carried out by architects and contractors.

The project has been completed on time and within budget.

“Thank you to all involved, we hope the residents of Ross will agree this grand old building is worth the time, energy and money needed to restore it to its former glory,” Ms Robson said.

The next stage of works will be discussed by the town council and a request for external grant funding is anticipated as it will include higher value works which will involve replacement of the crumbling masonry.