Cleaning the Black Watch Memorial, Edinburgh
In 2008 AOC undertook a programme of works on the Black Watch Memorial which is situated on the Mound in central Edinburgh.
Over many years the monument had been exposed to the elements and had undergone various degradation and corrosion processes. Bronze surfaces were discoloured and encased in corrosion products, which were not only unsightly but also detrimental to the overall stability of the statue. Careful cleaning of the bronze components of the statue was undertaken using pressurised water techniques together with localised manual cleaning of the detailed areas. The front plaque, depicting troops charging into battle, underwent further restoration work, through the reinstallation of the missing rifle parts with bayonets. All bronze components were surface treated to protect them from the local environmental conditions. The granite plinth was also cleaned and failing pointing replaced.
The work began in winter and was completed in time for the Rededication Ceremony in March.