"A new problem which has to be faced is the maintenance of the tower and spire fabric: as recommended in the Architect’s quinquennial survey, we have asked a firm of steeplejacks for a report and estimates concerning their condition.

A preliminary inspection has shown that some repairs are probably needed to the spire stonework, lightning conductor, and weathervane, and that the upper brickwork of the tower needs extensive re-pointing; so we have now agreed to have access ladders and suspended scaffolding erected at a cost of around £100 so that a close inspection can be made and detailed estimates prepared.

This money will not be wasted if extensive repairs prove to be necessary, as the same scaffolding will be utilised for both inspection and repairs.

Provisional estimate of the full cost is between £500 and £1,500, depending on what repairs are found to be necessary, but as we have asked for the inspection to be deferred until Spring, we shall not know the precise amount for some months."

Source: The Spire Magazine - 1970 December

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