Work has begun this month on a programme to restore Kilwinning Abbey Tower, one of North Ayrshire's most recognisable heritage sites.

Glasgow-based specialist CBC Stone is delivering £435,000 of conservation-led fabric improvements. As the works are weather-dependent, they are expected to run over the coming months.

The scope includes essential building fabric repairs to prevent water ingress, reinstatement of lost features, and a range of measures designed to preserve the structure and improve the experience for residents and visitors.

The restoration is being funded through a blend of investment from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the Scottish Government's Place Based Investment Programme, Crown Estate Scotland and North Ayrshire Council, leveraging external support to safeguard the landmark for future generations.

The current tower dates from 1816 and stands on the site of one of the medieval towers of Kilwinning Abbey. It retains its original clock mechanism from 1816.

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Conservation architects Wylie Shanks Architects prepared the tender information with input from North Ayrshire Council and Kilwinning Heritage, leading to the appointment of CBC Stone to carry out the works.

Due to the complexity of the works it has taken a lot of effort to reach this stage and we are delighted that CBC Stone are now on site. We are really excited to see works progress over the coming weeks and months. The Abbey is a source of great pride for the community and the whole of North Ayrshire, due to its cultural and historic significance. The dedicated team of volunteers from Kilwinning Heritage, who run the Heritage Centre located within the Tower, do a fantastic job and these works will safeguard the building's future which will allow them to promote and support the landmark for years to come." — Councillor Tony Gurney, Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy

The project follows a 2019 charrette which identified the Abbey, the Tower and surrounding grounds as locally significant. After the pandemic, the Kilwinning Place Framework was prepared, drawing on extensive engagement with residents, businesses, community groups and North Ayrshire Council services, and it prioritised enhancements to the tower.

Within the tower, the Kilwinning Heritage-run Heritage Centre tells the story of the town and area. Volunteers accompany visitors up 143 spiral steps to view the original clock mechanism and bells before reaching the roof, which offers views across the Ayrshire coastline. Kilwinning Heritage and North Ayrshire Heritage and Cultural Services will share updates on social media.