Golden Gates under repair, Warrington

Image: © Matt Harrop Taken: 3 Jan 2019

A facade decorated with an image of the famous Golden Gates sits in their place while the actual gates are away for restoration. The Golden Gates restoration project will see the Grade II* listed gates restored to their former glory. It is believed the gates were initially intended as a gift for Queen Victoria, before being purchased for Warrington by local councillor Frederick Monks. The previous refurbishment – carried out in 1978/9 – has lasted for nearly 40 years. However the urban location and proximity to a marine climate, means the gates are now showing signs of deterioration. Following a series of surveys, they were found to be in need of attention, with issues including corrosion and cracking of the ironwork, loss of decorative detail, defects to supporting brickwork, peeling paint and gilding. Having identified the need for repairs to the gates, Warrington Borough Council began work with international engineering, design and consultancy company, Ramboll, to identify the right conservators to carry out such a specialist piece of work.

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