Maintenance work will soon take place on two pieces of Otley’s historic architecture.

Otley Town Council has announced that conservation and maintenance work is to take place this month on two of Otley’s historic structures: the Buttercross and the Jubilee Clock.

The Town Council is proud to have guardianship of these wonderful parts of Otley’s heritage and that it can ensure their appropriate care.

The works, which are expected to last around four weeks (weather dependent) will commence on September 23, with the Buttercross seating area closed for the duration.

The historic Buttercross has its origins in Otley’s long history as a market town.

A covered structure originally built for traders from outlying villages to come to the town’s market to sell dairy produce, it is now available for use by charitable organisations and community groups, and for people to rest their legs when shopping.

Work on the structure will be of a general maintenance nature, with the roof, gutters, columns, timber benches and floor all cleaned, repaired, repointed and repainted as necessary.

At the same time, there will be some minor works to Market Place’s historic Jubilee Clock.

Built in 1887 to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria, the iconic clock tower is the notional centre of the town and a key meeting point.

During the maintenance period, the clock’s metal work and stone joints will be treated to both preserve and protect the historic structure.

Chair of Otley Town Council, Cllr Richard Hughes (Lib Dem, West Chevin Ward), said: “As it approaches the 800th anniversary of its Royal market charter, Otley has a long history reflected in the architecture of many of its buildings.

“It is important that such history is protected for future generations and so the town council commissions regular inspections of its assets. This has told us that some remedial work is urgent.

“While we appreciate the popularity of the Buttercross in particular as a place for people to gather, especially in inclement weather, the work unfortunately necessitates its closure to the public for a number of weeks.

“The contractors have passed on their assurances that the works will be carried out in an expedient manner, and we look forward to re-opening a revitalised Buttercross later this year.”

Work on both structures will begin on September 23 with the Buttercross closed for the duration.

To ensure trading can continue with as little disruption as possible, there will be no work carried out on market days (Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays).