The Jawbone Arch, located in the Meadows in Edinburgh, is to be removed and restored, the local authority has confirmed.

Conservators have been appointed to remove the bones of the structure which will be placed into storage for up to six months in order to allow them to dry. Following this, experts will then assess their condition before preserving and repairing the bones. In addition, the area surrounding the arch is to be cleared of fencing and allow for easier access through the Meadows for cyclists and pedestrians.

The project will begin later this month, and the cost for the repair work to the bones is thought to be around £49,000. More than half of the funding target has been provided by Edinburgh council and Edinburgh World Heritage. Additional support has been made available by the Marchmont and Sciennes Community Council, the Grange Association, the Friends of the Meadows and Bruntsfield Links and a range of individuals. The shortfall in fundraising in order to complete the project is now at £20,000.

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Councillor Richard Lewis, Culture Convener, commented: "The Jawbone Arch is an iconic structure within the Meadows landscape but is in need of restoration following years of being exposed to the Edinburgh elements.

"It is fantastic that so many organisations and locals have pledged support of the project, and the removal of the monument is hopefully the first step in restoring it to its former glory."

Adam Wilkinson, Director of Edinburgh World Heritage, added: "Conservation work is essential if we want the Jawbone Arch to survive and be enjoyed by future generations. Several places around the world have whale-bone archways, but Edinburgh's was a gift from the knitters of Shetland and Fair Isle, and is a rare example with formed of two pairs together.

"The response to the fundraising appeal has been very encouraging, but we need even greater generosity from the people and companies of Edinburgh to ensure the Jawbone Arch's future."

(JP/IT)