Grade II-listed Keppel’s Column has reopened to the public for first time after development works was completed
The 35m tall Structure located between Wentworth and Kimberworth has been undergoing major works throughout the last 12 months ahead of an unveiling to the public this weekend.
Access to Kepples Column has been prevented for over 20 years due to a severely broken and eroding staircase, with access to the top only accessible via cherry picker.
The external brickwork has been repaired, windows installed and staircase replaced allowing members of the public to visit the viewing platform for the first time since the late 1960s.
The work was carried out by Aura who have been conserving many of the UK’s most important listed and historical buildings since 1973. They have worked on Grade I listed Wentworth Woodhouse as part of the first phase of works to protect significant architectural features and interiors.
£252,525 funding for the repairs has come from Rotherham Council’s Asset management and capital funding with £207,377 being put forward by Historic England from the second round of the Heritage Stimulus Fund, which is part of the Culture Recovery Fund, and the Fitzwilliam Wentworth Amenity Trust have awarded a grant of £20,000 to support the restoration.
Those who climb the 210 steps and make it to the top will be greeted with a piece of artwork which has been created for the event and presented with a certificate upon exit.
The first tours on September 10 and 11 have already sold out. Future plans include opening up the attraction once a month starting in April.
