Conservation works planned for Kells Round Tower

Conservation work on the historic Kells Round Tower and crosses are planned for the near future.

Covid-19 concerns have delayed the start of the works but preparations are being put in place to start the crucial preservation work on the monuments in St Columba’s Graveyard, which are over 1000 -years-old.

“The conservation of these historic structures is essential - not only to ensure their preservation for future generations, but also to improve accessibility to them as an attraction for visitors and tourists to Kells,” said Cllr Sean Drew.

He has been informed by the Office of Public Works (OPW) that it is their intention to repoint the Round Tower and to stabilise and conserve its top.

“Work will also include measures to prevent birds getting and in the provision of a suitable access for the public.” The OPW has carried out a bat survey as well as building and topographical surveys and some ground investigations have also taken place.

A scaffold has been designed for the Tower which will be covered for safety reasons and to take account of the nearby South Cross and the proximity of the public footpath and street.

The scaffold will also allow vehicular access to be maintained to graveyard.

Cllr Drew explained that due to the current situation with Covid 19, the restricted work area on the scaffold around the tower creates issues for the health and safety of the OPW workforce.

“A substantive start on this work has been deferred until the situation improves. However, the OPW intends to proceed with the erection of the scaffolding so that it will be in place, ready for conservation works to start as soon as it is safe to do so.

“The position in relation to the High Crosses in Saint Columba’s Graveyard is that these are still in the ownership of the Representative Church Body and I have been informed the necessary legal arrangements relating to their future care are currently being addressed,” he said.

Cllr Drew said he has contacted the OPW in relation to St Colmcille’s House, requesting that remedial works be carried out urgently to stop water getting in through the roof of the building.