Clocktower walk to improve Forres Tolbooth
PLANS are in place to turn a historic Forres landmark into a tourist attraction.
If given the green light, visitors to the Tolbooth on High Street will be able to access an external walkway around the old clock tower, giving them views over the town and surrounding area.
The project which is in its first phase is being progressed by the Forres Heritage Trust which owns the building.
FHT chairman George Alexander explained: "There is a narrow walkway around the clock, which only a privileged few have ever gained access, but it is the aim of the Trust to make access safely available to tourists and locals alike. The views are beautiful, but actually, being inside the clocktower is an experience in itself. We plan to turn that whole part of the Tolbooth into a new visitor attraction."
The Trust has to seek permission from Historic Environment Scotland, Moray Council Building Control and Moray Council Planning for the whole renovation. However, an application has been lodged with the council to replace the wooden stairs which provide the direct access to the external walkway.
Mr Alexander said: "We have a very long way to go and there are conditions and permissions that we must seek in order to progress. We want to make sure that we do everything by the book and make sure whatever we do, is in keeping with the building and most importantly safe for those who will access the walkway. However, we also see the opportunity to give another use to the building and being able to market it as another reason to visit our wonderful town."
The project has received £9375 from the Town Centre Regeneration Funding allocated for ‘alterations to the outside gallery around the clock tower.’
If approved, AJ Engineering will design, fabricate and install the new stairs.
Mr Alexander added: "Once this phase is complete, which will include a huge amount of work from our volunteers who will be responsible for removing the old wooden stairs, the next stage in the process is to repair the lead lining which forms the floor of the walkway and replace the pointing which has been eroded from many of the joints in the stonework. Then work will begin on making the walkway safe for visitors."
FHT took ownership of the Tolbooth in 2013 and since then its team of volunteers have worked tirelessly to restore the building. Last July, renovations to the courtroom were revealed after three years of work and thousands of pounds of investment. The works included a full re-paint, replacement of wooden panelling, a new carpet, the ceiling being thoroughly cleaned and insulated, and all doors sanded and varnished has brought the room back to life. New floor to ceiling curtains have also been handmade and a state of the art multi-media system installed.
