Sedgley Beacon restoration progresses as second phase of works secured thanks to further funding from UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The first phase of the project, funded through £120,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and led by Dudley Council, was completed at the end of March.

Improvements included extensive vegetation clearance to reveal the tower, landscaping works to enhance its surroundings, repairs to the stone perimeter wall, restoration of gate posts and metal gates, installation of new entrance gates, and a range of environmental enhancements designed to create a safer and more welcoming space.

Following the success of the initial phase, Dudley Council has now secured a further £40,000 of funding, made possible by an agreed extension with the West Midlands Combined Authority.

The second phase will see the reinstatement of the missing section of the tower’s stone spiral staircase, which is a key step towards bringing the structure back into fuller use. The works are expected to be completed by the end of June.

Scaffolding is being erected around the full outer perimeter of the tower to enable the installation of new stone steps for the tower’s internal restoration while providing safe access to the top of the structure for repair works.

Sedgley Beacon is a Grade II listed sandstone tower and a designated Geosite within the Black Country Global Geopark. The completed works mark a significant step towards safeguarding the structure and improving public access to the area.

Councillor Paul Bradley, deputy leader of Dudley Council, said:

“Sedgley Beacon is a landmark structure that holds huge historic and cultural significance for the borough, as demonstrated by it featuring prominently in our coat of arms.

“I’m delighted that phase one has been completed so successfully, with immediate improvements to the appearance and safety of the site.

“Securing additional funding to move into phase two is also a fantastic result. These next works will help protect the structure for the future and bring us closer to our longer-term ambition of enabling greater access to the tower.”

Councillor David Stanley, chair of the Friends of Sedgley Beacon, said:

“It’s incredibly encouraging to see the progress that has already been made. The tower is now visible again and looking much more cared for, which has made a real difference.

“The next phase is particularly exciting as it focuses on restoring part of the tower itself. Reinstating the spiral staircase is an important step towards eventually being able to access the top again and enjoy the spectacular views from Beacon Hill.”

The project has been delivered in partnership with the Friends of Sedgley Beacon, West Midlands Police, South Staffs Water and other key stakeholders.