JR Scaffold Services has revealed how the firm erected a 24m-high scaffold around the Hamilton Mausoleum in preparation for major repairs.
The Paisley-based business constructed a full perimeter scaffold including a circular structure around the dome of the building ahead of restoration works.
The scaffold, which was supplied on behalf of Go Wright Ltd, will stand in place until 2022, upon completion of planned stone restoration and lead replacement works.
Following a campaign from the Hamilton Mausoleum Trust, South Lanarkshire Council pledged to invest thousands into repairing the historic building, and later commissioned repair work to combat water ingress and reverse signs of wear and tear.
Built in the grounds of the now-demolished Hamilton Palace, the building was constructed as a tomb and monument to Alexander, 10th Duke of Hamilton, nicknamed ‘El Magnifico’, but was incomplete at the time of his death in 1852.
In recent years the Mausoleum has hosted modern and classical music performances and art installations.
JR Scaffold Services worked with Historic Scotland to be able to erect the scaffolding structure in a way which would protect the building and its history.
John Jack, contracts manager at The JR Group, explained, “We’re proud to be playing a part in the restoration of the Hamilton Mausoleum – one of the country’s most iconic buildings which holds a fascinating history. Over a four-week period, we built a scaffold structure around the entire perimeter of the building including the dome, along with a full-height loading bay, staircase and hoist bay. The scaffold will allow for important works to preserve the Hamilton Mausoleum, which has been showing signs of water ingress.
“JR Scaffold Services worked closely with Historic Scotland throughout this process to ensure that the building and its features were protected. Vital repair works have now begun and when completed will breathe new life into the landmark, helping to safeguard its future.”
