FIFE’S historic Mercat Cross has returned to a new upgraded position in Inverkeithing town centre.
Specialist conservation repairs were led at the Graciela Ainsworth Sculpture Conservation workshops in Ratho.
The cross has been restored and re-painted using a traditional lead-based paint, to match its original medieval appearance. Samples of residual paintwork were analysed by the University of Lincoln to determine the colour scheme.
New bronze gnomons have been made for the sundial faces, and the cross has been carefully orientated so that these can be used to tell the time again. Pupils at Inverkeithing Primary School helped create content for a new time capsule which will soon be buried next to the Mercat Cross in its new location.
The Mercat Cross works are a final part of the wider Inverkeithing heritage regeneration project that began in 2019. Fife Council has worked with Fife Historic Buildings Trust and the local community to invest in Inverkeithing’s historic buildings and streets to support the town’s future.
The project has delivered a range of streetscape works creating more people-friendly spaces and improved the setting of the town’s landmark buildings. The Inverkeithing Town House has been repaired and redeveloped, other historic buildings have benefited from a building repair grant scheme, and a varied heritage themed training and activity programme has been delivered for adults and young people.
Councillor David Barratt, convener of the south and west Fife area committee, said, “The return of the Mercat Cross marks a significant milestone in Inverkeithing’s heritage regeneration. Restoring this important landmark to its former prominence, and making it functional once again, symbolises the wider investment taking place across the town. Thanks to careful conservation, community involvement, and the commitment of our project partners, we are helping to retain Inverkeithing’s historic centre for generations to come.”
Dr Susan O’Connor, head of grants at Historic Environment Scotland, added, “We are delighted to support Inverkeithing’s transformation through our conservation area regeneration scheme (CARS). The streetscape improvements, including the conservation of the Mercat Cross, reflect the culmination of many years of dedicated work to enhance Inverkeithing’s historic environment. By investing in its heritage, we can help create a more attractive town centre for local community and visitors alike, ensuring Inverkeithing’s rich history continues to inspire.”
