THE iconic Storm Tower in Bude is now one step closer to being moved after the Compass Point Project finalise a new foundation for the ‘Pepper Pot’.

As the Compass Point Project enters it’s sixth week, visions of the Storm Tower’s new location can start to be seen as a new base has been created for the tower to sit upon. Made from reinforced steel and concrete, the new base will provide a strong foundation for the iconic building.

Due to the nature of the project, the tower must be dismantled brick by brick before being rebuilt 200 meters away from the cliff edge. Currently workers are in the process of dismantling the roof, despite discovering that the dome was much thicker than anticipated, the job is still on course to be completed by the end of the week.

Following the dome’s deconstruction, the project will progress to the next stage, dismantling the tower brick by brick. The meticulous process will see stones removed methodically and marked sequentially to ensure they are reconstructed in the right order.

Newly elected mayor of Bude, Cllr Michael Dawe has expressed his excitement regarding the project’s progress.

He said: “This week has been filled with excitement as we achieve two major milestones in the Compass Point Project. The foundations for the tower’s base at the new site have been completed, and we have successfully removed the concrete dome roof. Next week, we will begin removing the stones. I want to commend the public for their decision to preserve the tower’s current orientation, preserving the panoramic view essential for our coastguards during its previous move. This decision leaves behind a fascinating story to be shared with future generations.

“I’d like to give my thanks once again to everyone involved in this huge project.”

While still in its early stages, the project hopes to be completed by October this year.