Falkirk Council has announced the start of a restoration project on the historic Bruce Obelisk, an important piece of local history commemorating James Bruce of Kinnaird, a descendant of the most famous King of Scots, Robert the Bruce.

Made by Carron Iron Works, the Obelisk is a cast-iron monument commissioned in 1785 by James Bruce himself in memory of his wife Mary and stands as a testament to Falkirk's craftsmanship and heritage during the industrial revolution.

After being temporarily moved in 1993, the Obelisk has endured the test of time and the elements but is now displaying signs of aging at its last location in Larbert Old Parish Church.

The restoration project is being led by Falkirk Council and managed on-site by framework consultants WSP and the intricate process of rejuvenating the Obelisk is being led by iron restoration specialists Lost Art Limited in Wigan.

The restoration journey will involve delicate repairs, restoration of missing parts and a faithful replication of the monument's original design and colour scheme. The pathway leading to and surrounding the tomb area will also be renewed.

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Once restored the Obelisk will return to its rightful place atop the Kinnaird family tomb in Larbert Old Parish Church graveyard.

Funding for this project has been secured from various sources. A grant of £32,500 from Historic Environment Scotland (HES), joined by contributions from the Council's Bereavement Service and Avondale Environmental, part of the NPL Group, through the Scottish Landfill Communities Fund.

Generous donations from Falkirk Local History Society and Falkirk Preceptory and Priory have also significantly bolstered the project's support.

Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, Leader of Falkirk Council said: "The funding and contributions from Historic Environment Scotland and our partners underline the community's dedication to preserving Falkirk's rich historical heritage.

"The project is well on track with an anticipated completion in Spring 2024 and we are pleased the Bruce Obelisk, a pivotal piece of our heritage will continue to stand tall for many years to come."

Susan O'Connor, Head of Grants at Historic Environment Scotland, said: "The Bruce Obelisk is a crucial part of local Falkirk history and we're delighted to be funding its restoration, ensuring the longevity of this vital piece of heritage and its continued enjoyment by the community."

The local community have also been involved with the restoration project that was initially prioritised in 2021 following a survey by HES.

In 2022, teachers and pupils from the Art and English Departments of Larbert High School produced creative art, multimedia and written work based on the story of James Bruce, to whose family the Bruce Obelisk is dedicated; they were mentored by Geoff Bailey, local historical expert.

Local Community Groups and Institutions including Falkirk Made Friends, Communities Along the Carron and Larbert Old Parish Church have also supported the project. In addition, Lord Thurlow, a descendant of James Bruce, to whose family the Obelisk was dedicated, has also confirmed his family's support for the project.