Diggle Clock Tower
-
Location: Diggle
-
Sector: Heritage
-
Division: Regional Building
Tilbury Douglas successfully undertook the restoration of Diggle Clock Tower, a Grade II listed heritage building and the last remaining structure of the former Dobcross Loom Works.
As part of Oldham Council’s ‘Creating a Better Place’ programme, the project aimed to stabilise and preserve the derelict structure, which had suffered from decades of neglect, vandalism, and extensive water damage.
Works focused on essential repairs to the external envelope and internal structure, ensuring the building’s longevity while safeguarding its historical significance. The refurbishment included specialist heritage restoration of masonry, timber, and windows, as well as the careful dismantling and storage of historic features for future reinstatement. The outcome was a fully weatherproofed and stabilised shell, allowing for future repurposing while maintaining its architectural and cultural value within the community.
The project’s scope concentrated on stabilising and refurbishing the historic structure, ensuring its long-term preservation. Key works included extensive external repairs, such as masonry restoration, timber beam replacements, and structural reinforcement to address severe water damage. The building envelope was upgraded to modern standards while maintaining its heritage character, including refurbishing timber windows and restoring the clock tower.
Internally, significant interventions were undertaken, including the safe removal of asbestos, the repair and replacement of degraded timber flooring, and the cataloguing of historic features for future reinstatement. Specialist heritage consultants collaborated closely with Tilbury Douglas to retain and restore original elements wherever possible. The project was completed as a ‘shell and core’ refurbishment, preserving the structure while allowing flexibility for future development.
At a glance...
£4m
Project value
2022
Completion date
Oldham Council
Client
Challenges and solutions
One of the primary challenges was the severe structural degradation caused by prolonged exposure to water and vandalism. Many original timber elements, including floors and roof structures, had rotted beyond repair. Tilbury Douglas employed a combination of sympathetic restoration and modern reinforcement techniques, splicing new timber into existing trusses and replacing sections where necessary to maintain historical integrity.
The building’s location adjacent to Saddleworth High School added complexity, requiring close coordination to manage deliveries, scaffolding, and waste removal with minimal disruption to students and staff. Limited access to upper levels and the clock tower required careful planning, including the dismantling and safe storage of historic elements such as the ornate Victorian cast iron staircase and the clock mechanism. By overcoming these challenges, Tilbury Douglas ensured the safe conservation of this important local landmark.
Added value
The Diggle Clock Tower restoration contributed significantly to heritage conservation, sustainability, and community benefits. By preserving a Grade II listed structure, the project safeguarded an important historical asset, supporting Oldham Council’s wider regeneration goals. The approach aligned with Considerate Constructors Scheme principles, ensuring minimal disruption to the adjacent school and local community.
Sustainability was a key focus, with restoration techniques reducing CO₂ emissions compared to full demolition and reconstruction. The use of traditional craftsmanship and local heritage specialists also supported skills retention in conservation trades. Additionally, value engineering strategies were employed to balance cost-effectiveness with high-quality restoration, ensuring the project met budget constraints while delivering long-term durability. The carefully executed stabilisation ensures the building remains a viable asset for future redevelopment, enhancing local heritage and community value.
Our partners
-
Heritage Advisors: Heritage Project Management
-
Architect: Buttress Architects