Standing watch over Ruthin’s St. Peter’s Square since 1883, the Clock Tower—also known as the Peers Memorial—has been more than just a timepiece. Designed by the renowned Victorian architect John Douglas, this Gothic masterpiece is both a symbol of the town’s heritage and a tribute to Joseph Peers, the distinguished Clerk of the Peace for Denbighshire. Yet, even structures as enduring as the Clock Tower are not immune to the relentless march of time.
Years of exposure to the elements had taken their toll, prompting the formation of the Ruthin Clock Tower Committee. This passionate group, with the support of Ruthin Town Council and funding from organisations such as the Clocaenog Wind Farm Community Fund, Denbighshire County Council, and The National Lottery Heritage Fund, set their sights on restoring this beloved landmark. Their determination marked the beginning of a journey to breathe new life into the tower.
The painstaking restoration was entrusted to R. Moore Building Conservation. The skilled team addressed challenges ranging from invasive vegetation to the deteriorating stonework that threatened the tower’s structural integrity. The work was as much about safeguarding the future as it was about honouring the past, with traditional techniques used to ensure historical accuracy.
The project reached its crowning moment earlier this week with a traditional topping-out ceremony. Alongside the clock tower conservators, representatives from the Clock Tower Committee, the architect, and Denbighshire County Council* gathered to witness the final touch: the installation of the gilded weather vane. Fiona Gale, Chair of the Clock Tower Committee, oversaw this symbolic act, marking the project’s successful completion.
The restored Ruthin Clock Tower now stands resplendent, ready to inspire generations to come. Its revival is not merely a testament to architectural conservation but also a story of a community’s shared commitment to preserving the spirit of place.
R. Moore Building Conservation has commissioned some professional photos of the tower and will share with you soon.
