Boundary Ironwork Reinstatement Project

BIRP

A project to restore cast iron railings to many of Perth's historic and architecturally significant locations.

At the turn of the last century, Scotland had been a world leader in the production and export of cast iron and its ready availability had resulted in the widespread use of boundary ironwork, with most principal routes in Scottish towns being lined with railings. In 1941, Perth gave up most of its railings to the war effort. More than 60 years on, Perth & Kinross Council and Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust have been working on a scheme to replace the railings and enhance the appearance and character of the Fair City.

The first phase began at the AK Bell Library, and will improve the setting of this important A-listed building through the restoration of railings to the substantial retaining wall which faces onto Glasgow Road. Missing stonework will also be replaced and new notice boards installed as part of the project, all helping to strengthen the Library's presence in the area.

It is hoped that a second phase of the project will focus on Atholl Street, close to the North Inch. The buildings here were constructed between 1807 and 1825 and are generally little altered in appearance from that time. The two principal terraces on Atholl Street are fronted by low stone walls, which, aside from some short stretches of railings at basement level, currently have only ironwork stumps visible. Replacing the railings here would put back an important missing part of the overall architectural design and enhance the route beside the North Inch.

The Heritage Trust plans to set up a targeted fund to address other areas requiring railing restoration in Perth. Property owners and occupiers are encouraged to contact the Trust to discuss possibilities.