DAyisrt Nricotr tNhews Steeple gets a big facelift
at last, one of the historic gateways is to be spruced up.
Two years ago we highlighted the unloved and neglected Newton Tower.
The 45- foot high steeple was built in 1787, one of the finest remaining examples of Georgian architecture.
Yet this piece of history had been allowed to get shabby.
South Ayrshire Council spent money keeping the four- faced clock in order, but paint peeled and became covered in grime.
Roughcast fell off and windows at the front and one at the rear were cracked.
Pressure was put on the council by Kyle and Carrick Civic Society who wanted the building “given the preservation it deserves.”
The tower was once part of the Newton Burgh Council chambers and had buildings attached on either side. The Burgh became part of Ayr in 1873. The steeple was saved 51 years ago when councillors voted eight to five to maintain it as part of the King Street widening project.
It now sits on a traffic island and again escaped demolition 27 years ago.
At the time Newton Councillor Les Little demanded it was retained as the last part of the old burgh chambers.
Donald Gillies, Head of Property and Risk for South Ayrshire Council confirmed the work, which began earlier this month.
He said: “The works to the Newton Tower are designed to significantly refresh this important landmark building.
“Minor repairs will be carried out and the tower will be redecorated around the end of November. T
“The works will enhance the appearance and protect the tower and compliment the upgrade of the flats at Newton.”