Preserving a historic local landmark for Essex County Council

Overview of the challenge

Jaywick Martello Tower is a much-loved local landmark and a Scheduled Ancient Monument, meaning any work to conserve it had to meet some of the most exacting heritage standards. Essex County Council required essential restoration to the roof and parapet to address deterioration and leaks, without compromising the tower’s historic fabric or restricting public access.

This wasn’t a straightforward maintenance job. Every intervention had to be carefully justified, approved and delivered in line with guidance from Historic England, with strict controls on materials, methods and access. The challenge was to protect and futureproof an important piece of local history, while keeping parts of the site open and safe for the community throughout the works.

Our approach

Preparation and collaboration were key. Detailed leak pathology, specialist input and all Special Monument Consent approvals were secured before work began, ensuring nothing was left to chance. Mitie worked closely with Essex County Council, Historic England and specialist partners to agree the right scope and techniques from the outset.

The team used specialist rope access to minimise impact on the structure and surrounding areas. Materials were treated with the same care as the building itself, with all mortar samples fully analysed and approved before use. Repairs included removing failed asphalt and render, reinstating roof finishes, specialist re-pointing, and installing new dovetail joints to strengthen the structure for the long term.

All works were carefully sequenced to maintain safety, quality and public access wherever possible.

The results

Completed in just seven weeks, the restoration has secured the tower’s roof and parapets while preserving its historic character. The building remains accessible, safe and fit for continued cultural and community use, safeguarding a valued asset for future generations.

The project reinforced the strength of Mitie’s partnership with Essex County Council, demonstrating how sensitive heritage restoration can be delivered efficiently, compliantly and collaboratively, even within the tight constraints of a Scheduled Ancient Monument.

Their expertise in working on historic structures proved invaluable, giving us confidence that the project would be delivered smoothly and in full compliance with the restrictions associated with a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Overall, the collaboration fostered a professional and productive environment that was key to the success of the roof repairs.

Jaywick Martello Tower, Site Manager

Why choose Mitie?

Plan, deliver and optimise complex capital projects across the built environment. Whether it’s a major engineering programme or a targeted upgrade, our role as a principal contractor covers everything from strategy and design through to execution and optimisation. 

Our specialisms

• Energy and power
• Built environment
• Workplace experience