In pictures: Clock tower at Dr Gray's Hospital in Elgin undergoes £1.2m restoration

A 200-year-old hospital in Moray has undergone a £1.2m renovation to restore a historic clock tower and chimney.

NHS Grampian has rebuilt the chimney and completed major repairs on the clock tower at Dr Gray’s in Elgin as part of an ongoing multi-million-pound investment.

NHS Grampian completed major repairs on the clocktower of Dr Gray's Hospital. — NHS Grampian completed major repairs on the clocktower of Dr Gray’s Hospital. NHS Grampian

The repairs included restoring the copper dome and internal timber structure, as well as preserving the original bell from 1818.

The health board said internal details and inscriptions were meticulously documented to preserve the building’s heritage.

Clock tower repairs included restoring the internal timber structure. NHS Grampian

Clock tower repairs included preserving the original 1818 bell. NHS Grampian

The health board has also restored the entire south-west side of the building.

NHS Grampian restored the south-west side of Dr Gray's Hospital. — NHS Grampian restored the south-west side of Dr Gray’s Hospital.

“These are complex works on an old building,” said NHS Grampian project manager Allan Benzie.

“It’s not just about fixing stone and timber; it’s about respecting the original craftsmanship and making sure what we do today lasts well into the future.”

The restoration programme is aimed at repairing decades of weather damage and preserving the hospital for future generations.

Its sandstone walls, clock tower, and original features have endured two centuries of wind and rain, and major repair work began in 2021 after surveys revealed the extent of damage.

NHS Grampian has already spent £1.2m on repairs, with a further £1m still needed to complete the work.

“This building means so much to the people of Elgin,” said Angie McColl, NHS Grampian project manager.

“Every stone tells a story, and our goal is to make sure it stands strong for another 200 years.”

NHS Grampian said restoration works will now tackle the front façade and remaining clocktower work.