Scaffolding scales parts of Red House Glass Cone in next stage of restoration works
New pictures show the Red House Glass Cone as it has never been seen before as scaffolding scales parts of the 100 ft structure in an 18-month restoration project.
Work began in July on the Grade II listed Wordsley building – which is one of four surviving glass cones in the UK – thanks to a £1.5 million investment.
Scaffolding has already been erected inside the structure, with work now moving to the outside in the next step of the project.
Specialist framework can be seen climbing the historic building, which was built in the period between 1788 and 1794.
Those who live nearby have been warned that their homes may be overlooked by the scaffolding, which is set to be in place for around 40 weeks.
Bridge Street, which is located outside the Cone,has closed to traffic from 6am on Thursday to 6pm on Friday from the junction of Camp Hill to John Street, to allow a crane to operate on site and the framework to be installed.
Councillor Adam Davies, who represents the Audnam area of Wordsley, said: "It is so good to see the external scaffolding now taking shape - enabling this important work to preserve and protect the Cone which is such a proud landmark of our area.
"This project is really important to local people - not least because so many worked in our local glassmaking industry or, like me, had family members who did."
The improvements that will be made to the cone include the internal and external re-pointing of its entire structure using authentic lime mortar.
It will also see the building made more accessible to visitors, with the internal gantry and lift inside the cone removed to create an open space.
The Cone is closed while the works are going on, but the museum, shop, studios, cafe and community room remain open.