Partnership project Garnock Connections has improved Lochwinnoch’s ancient 16th century Peel of Castle Semple ruin.
The ruin of the fortified tower house, which has been designated as a nationally important scheduled monument, has been identified as a significant feature within the Garnock landscape.
The tower - in the middle of Castle Semple Loch - was originally built by the Semple family as an outpost to defend their territory.
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However, over 500 years it had suffered from natural decay and vandalism and was at risk of collapse. Important repairs were therefore required to prevent further damage and ensure the historic landmark’s survival.
The work, which was funded by Historic Environment Scotland’s Restoration Grant and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, included the clearing and inspection - under archaeological supervision - of the fallen rubble within the monument and the removal of certain plants from the area.
A spokesperson for Historic Environment Scotland (HES) said: “We are delighted to see Peel Tower at Loch Castle Semple consolidated and to be working as part of the Garnock Connections Landscape Partnership to help drive this forward by providing our expert advice and grant support throughout this exciting project.
“This is a flagship heritage initiative for us, marking the centre of the partnership area, ensuring the castle and its outstanding natural environment is preserved for visitors and locals alike for generations to come.”
To celebrate the end of the consolidation work, a recent free event invited visitors to row across Castle Semple Loch to see the Peel Tower, learn more about the tower’s history and the consolidation work.
Garnock Connections is a suite of 28 projects restoring a network of wildlife habitats and historic sites across the landscape, as well as encouraging local people to become more involved with their heritage.
The initiative is coordinated by the Garnock Connections Landscape Partnership, which is made up of RSPB Scotland as lead partner, North Ayrshire Council, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), NatureScot, and the Scottish Wildlife Trust, with Historic Environment Scotland (HES) acting as an advisory body.
Garnock Connections has been supported by a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. To find out more, email the team at garnock.connections@rspb.org.uk
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