Historic tower can now be seen in all its glory for the first time in seven years

The Quad Tower pictured when scaffolding was in place
-Credit:University of Gloucestershire


Quad Tower at University of Gloucestershire’s Francis Close Hall Campus in Cheltenham has been seen for the first time in seven years following a restoration. Scaffolding was erected around the 19th century tower in 2017 due to damage to the stonework, with fears the entire structure could have fallen down.

Following thorough investigations to discover what work needed to be done, University stonemasons began restoring the top of the tower turret in October 2020 where stonework had been damaged as a result of iron fittings rusting away. Over the last four years, large sections of damaged stonework, walls and windows has been replaced, with much of the delicate and time-consuming work being performed patiently by hand.

This included significant restoration to the stone arch below the clock on the tower that was crumbling and needed to be replaced. The work was made more difficult because the arch needed to be carried out without removing the clock and its associated stonework.

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The restoration work to the tower was carried out by project manager Luke Tovey, previously a stonemason at Worcester Cathedral, and Graeme Crowie, a long-term employee of the University who trained as a stonemason’s assistant especially for this project.

The full glory of the iconic 19th century Quad Tower at University of Gloucestershire’s Francis Close Hall Campus in Swindon Road has been revealed for the first time in more than seven years. The scaffolding was finally removed this month, after students, staff and visitors were unable to see the tower properly for seven years.

The Quad Tower pictured after scaffolding was removed following the completion of a restoration project at the University
The Quad Tower pictured after scaffolding was removed following the completion of a restoration project at the University

Luke Tovey said: “It’s been a privilege to restore the Quad Tower and preserve its history. Seeing it finally complete is a proud moment for all of us."

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Graeme Crowie said: “Being part of this project has been incredible. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn a new craft and help bring the tower back to life.”

Julia Lloyd , Director of Estates, Facilities and IT Services at the University, said: “We value our role in promoting our county’s cultural heritage and in preserving historic buildings for the benefit of the local community, as we have shown with our City Campus development at the former Debenhams in Gloucester. Luke Tovey and Graeme Crowie from our Estates team have worked in all weathers to ensure the restoration of the tower was carried out to the highest standards, and the result is a lasting tribute to their care and craftmanship in bringing it back to its former glory.

“We’re absolutely thrilled that the scaffolding has come down following completion of the project and that we’re able to share the results of their endeavour with the local community and visitors to Cheltenham for many years to come.”