Restoration of an iconic monument overlooking the waterfront at St Andrews may cost more than originally anticipated.
An appeal to raise cash to repair the Martyrs’ Monument was launched with a target of £100,000.
It was anticipated the cost of returning the 170-year-old obelisk to its former glory could cost up to £150,000, but a survey has now found the bill could be up to £180,000.
The 32-foot sandstone structure was built in 1842-3 to commemorate four leading Protestant figures Patrick Hamilton, Henry Forrest, Paul Craw and Walter Myln who were burned at the stake between 1520 and 1560.
Just a stone’s throw from the Old Course on The Scores, it highlights the important role that the town played in the Reformation.
However, it has suffered erosion from the weather, pollution and sea air. It is crumbling at such a rate that a fence has been put around it by Fife Council to prevent anyone being struck by falling masonry.
Last October a steering group involving St Andrews Community Council, St Andrews Preservation Trust, St Andrews Partnership and the council launched a drive raise money for its restoration. To date, over £7000 has been donated.
A detailed survey just completed by specialist conservation architect Stephen Newson has provided details of the conservation required, options for the restoration and cost estimates.
The works will be put out to competitive tender, but it is expected the full cost of carrying out repairs and restoring the monument’s carvings will be between £150,000 and £180,000, which the campaign leaders said was an “ambitious” fund-raising target for the community.
Steering group chairman Ray Pead said, “The generous donations we have received to date from over 60 individuals and organisations have allowed us to carry out this essential first phase of the works, and we now know the full scale of the funding challenge which lies ahead.
“Local people have told us overwhelmingly that they would like to see Martyrs’ Monument not simply protected from future deterioration, but also restored as much as possible towards its former glory.
“Unfortunately, high-quality stone restoration work doesn’t come cheap, but we are confident that by working together we can reach this ambitious target.
“The monument is an important reminder of our historic legacy and, following the huge success of the recent St Andrews royal wedding breakfast, we see this as the next big community project for the town.”
The architect’s report will form the basis of major grant applications to funding bodies and prospective donors, which will be lodged shortly.