The RICS UK Awards celebrate projects across the built environment that demonstrate excellence in craftsmanship, collaboration, sustainability, and positive impact within their communities. We’re therefore delighted that Peers Memorial, Ruthin Clock Tower has been shortlisted in the Heritage category of the RICS UK Awards 2026 (Wales).
R. Moore Building Conservation were proud to undertake the conservation works to this important landmark in the heart of Ruthin. When work began, the tower presented a complex range of issues including failing render, water ingress, deteriorating masonry, and extensive surface defects that had developed over many years of exposure to the weather.
The conservation programme required a careful and considered approach throughout. Working through winter conditions – at times with snow on the scaffold – the project involved hot lime applications, masonry repairs, treatment and conservation work to Peers’ statue, and the application of a new breathable Keim wash to safeguard the structure into the future. Other works included the sensitive transformation of the original horse trough into a new public bench, helping to strengthen the relationship between the monument and the surrounding town square.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the project was witnessing the wider community reconnect with the clock tower and the history of Ruthin itself. People of all generations became involved through talks, activities, cardboard clock tower model-making, and even the creation of a digital version of the monument within Minecraft. The project became about far more than repair alone –Â prompting conversations around local identity, memory, and stewardship.
Project architect Elinor Gray-Williams of PEGW Architects reflected, the project was marked by “the joy of the reveal” and by “a complete joy” of a volunteer team whose enthusiasm helped shape the project throughout.
Our thanks and congratulations go to everyone involved including:
Ruthin Town Council,
Denbighshire County Council,
Clocaenog Wind Farm Community Fund,
Pegw Architects,
National Lottery Heritage Fund
