Macduff Cross set for major refurbishment
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
THE iconic Macduff Cross will undergo a major refurbishment, Aberdeenshire council has announced.
The landmark, better known locally as 'The Anchorage', will undergo 12 weeks of enhancements starting from today, April 25.
The Cross was erected in 1783 by the Earl of Fife to mark the town becoming a Royal Burgh.
In 1983, in celebration of the Cross's bicentenary, a viewing platform and concrete steps were laid out - features which remain in place today.
However, the platform and landscaping around the Cross have developed structural issues in relation to the position of the monument at the top of the coastal slope.
As such, the council moved to address those issues.
Christine Pert, of the council's Historic Asset Monument Project, said: "The viewing platform around the Cross is no longer fit for purpose, both physically and aesthetically so we will be removing the existing platform, repairing the Cross and base, and re-landscaping and improving the area of open space around both the Cross and anchor.
"By removing the platform and introducing significant planting designed to stabilise the slope, the important historic landmark's future will be secured for the benefit of all for many years to come."
Aberdeenshire Council's Environment Team commissioned Banff company Addison Conservation and Design to prepare initial ideas on how the landmark might be improved.
In early 2020 a public engagement exercise was carried out and a final design was agreed which resolved the structural problems and aimed to improve the area for locals and visitors alike.
The forthcoming works will include the installation of a new footpath, seating, lighting and planting of wild flowers and broom to help stabilise the slope.
Aberdeen based contractors Straight Away Ltd will carry out the project with an expected completion date set for early July.
A road closure will remain in place throughout the works but local businesses in the area will remain open.
