Dalkeith Tolbooth reopens after £220k revamp

Published on 13/02/2013 10:36

ONE of Dalkeith’s oldest buildings has been reopened by the Duke of Buccleuch following the completion of a £220,000 six-month repair and restoration project.

Situated in the town’s East High Street, the 17th century Tolbooth – which was the focal point of the town from 
medieval times until the 19th century – was in need of urgent repair.

Hard cement render and mortar pointing had badly damaged the front and rear of the building. At the rear, hard cement render had trapped moisture, resulting in the 
erosion of the soft sandstone beneath.

The restoration was carried out under the Dalkeith THI/CARS (Townscape Heritage Initiative and Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme) grant programme.

The Duke of Buccleuch officially reopened the Tolbooth at lunchtime today.

Rod Lugg, THI/CARS project manager, said: “This key building in the High Street has had many uses over the years – a count house, prison, weight house, and base for Dalkeith Scientific Association, amongst 
others.

“It was the focus of much civic pride and community identity and, with the repair work now completed, it will continue to have a significant presence in Dalkeith for many more years to come.”