Work has begun at iconic Blackpool Grand to fit temporary restraints to the stonework on the copper dome.

Max Allatt, Blackpool Grand Technical Manager explained, “During a routine inspection, we discovered that the pilasters – the stone gables that stand either side of our dome – had started to lean out slightly over the carriageway on Church Street and Corporation Street.

“This type of movement is not unusual in a building that is one hundred and twenty-five years old.

“Our structural engineer advised that we should fit temporary restraints until we are ready to complete the planned full refurbishment of the stone tower and the dome, currently scheduled for later this year.”

Mark Perfect, managing director of Pendrich Height Services Ltd who were commissioned to undertake the temporary works, said, “We have a lot of experience working on heritage buildings, so this job was relatively straightforward for us and involved two of our experienced steeplejacks working at height to secure the stonework.

Blackpool Grand Chief Executive, Ruth Eastwood, believed that it was the correct course of action,

We have been raising money to repair the stonework and dome during this our 125th birthday year.

“However, we had to commission this temporary work as we can’t compromise where safety is concerned. We haven’t raised enough funds yet to commence the main refurbishment project, but we had to act to protect the public no matter how small the risk.”

Safety first at Blackpool Grand – The temporary restraints are expected to remain in place for rest of this year.

You can make a donation to the Grand’s 125 Anniversary Appeal by phoning the Box Office on 01253 290190 or via the website: www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk/donate