Scaffolding is being erected around Worcester Cathedral’s tower this week as work begins on the next phase of the Cathedral’s major Reaching New Heights conservation project.
Scaffolding Goes Up as Worcester Cathedral’s Reaching New Heights Project Gets off the Ground
The project will see the repair and rebuilding of the Cathedral’s vulnerable northwest pinnacles, securing the historic structure for generations to come and safeguarding one of Worcester’s most recognisable landmarks.
The Reaching New Heights project was launched following damage caused by Storm Arwen in November 2021, when winds of up to 100mph led to the collapse of the Cathedral’s northeast pinnacle. Detailed investigations revealed that the northwest pinnacles had been constructed using similar methods and were therefore at risk of comparable structural failure.
Temporary steel supports were installed to secure the affected pinnacles, but permanent conservation work is now essential to protect the Cathedral’s historic fabric and ensure the long-term safety of the building.
Worcester Cathedral received a £249,956 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund in support of the Reaching New Heights project.
The project will showcase the exceptional expertise of Worcester Cathedral’s in-house stonemasons, demonstrating traditional heritage skills alongside modern engineering techniques. The rebuilt pinnacles will use Red Hollington stone combined with integrated steelwork to provide a durable and resilient solution while remaining faithful to the Cathedral’s historic character. The work is being undertaken by the Cathedral’s experienced conservation team, supported by specialist consultants and dedicated volunteers.
As part of the project, Worcester Cathedral is inviting visitors to look beyond the stone this autumn with a fascinating programme of expert-led tours exploring the architecture, archaeology and historic graffiti that reveal the stories of the people who built, worked in and worshipped here.
The scaffold build commenced on Monday 17 August and is expected to take approximately eight weeks to complete. Conservation work on the pinnacle will then begin, with a further eight weeks of repair work planned, alongside a four-week contingency period.
The scaffolding is currently expected to be removed in early January 2027.
The Cathedral has responded to community feedback by silencing the daytime clock chimes. The quarter chimes have been switched off and will remain silent throughout the project. The hour bell will continue to sound before 8.00am and after 5.00pm but will not ring during working hours.
In addition, bellringing and tower tours will be suspended whenever contractors are working on the scaffolding, currently anticipated to be between 7.30am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday, with possible Saturday morning working during the scaffold erection phase.
Visitors are encouraged to check the Cathedral website and visitor information channels for the latest updates regarding tower access and tours.
For more information and to book tickets, please click here.
