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Jumbo Tower Historic Restoration

Sir Robert McAlpine, Colchester

Alloy Fabweld’s heritage restoration works focused on reinforcing metalwork to help keep the tank safe, repairing tank plates and delivering staircases as part of the tower’s sensitive refurbishment. Each element required a careful balance between preserving the historic character of the structure and meeting the strict safety and structural standards required for its future public use.

The tank plate repairs demanded a detailed and controlled approach. Working with ageing metalwork within a historic structure meant the team had to understand the condition of the existing fabric before carrying out sympathetic repair works. The aim was to strengthen and stabilise the tank while retaining as much of its original character and engineering value as possible.

Alloy Fabweld also provided reinforcing metalwork to support the long-term safety of the structure. This required accurate fabrication, careful coordination and a strong understanding of how new metalwork could integrate with the existing Victorian construction without compromising its heritage importance.

The staircase works formed another important part of the restoration, supporting improved access through the building as it is brought back into public use. These elements needed to be robust, safe and practical, while sitting appropriately within one of Colchester’s most recognisable historic structures.

Jumbo Tower demonstrates Alloy Fabweld’s ability to deliver complex heritage restoration metalwork where precision, sensitivity and safety are all essential. Through reinforcing metalwork, staircase fabrication and tank plate repairs, the team helped support the conservation of a much-loved landmark and its transformation into a destination for future generations.

"We are grateful for Alloy Fabweld for bringing care, technical expertise and precision to the restoration works at Jumbo Tower. Their reinforcing metalwork, staircase works and tank plate repairs will help protect the structure while supporting its future as a safe, accessible and inspiring heritage attraction."

Project Manager

Restoration

Jumbo Tower, formally known as the Balkerne Water Tower, is one of Colchester’s most important industrial heritage landmarks. Opened in 1883 to provide clean water to the town, the Grade II* listed structure has stood above the city for more than 140 years and remains a powerful symbol of Victorian engineering.

After being decommissioned in 1984, the tower suffered from decades of neglect, with cracking, corrosion and failing tank plates creating an urgent need for specialist restoration. The wider project aims to conserve the tower and transform it into a fully accessible heritage attraction, allowing visitors to experience the huge water tank, engineers’ room and panoramic views across Colchester.

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