With the generous financial support of the Friends of the Ancient Monuments and using Corporation funds and donations made by groups and individuals in the town, conservation work is taking place during the autumn of 2016.

Sections of the walls will be repointed, replacing cement with lime mortar which will let the structure breathe and slow its deterioration. Weeds on the top of the gate will be sprayed to prevent further damage caused by roots opening up cracks in the roof. Some damaged quoin stones will be replaced, some eroded metal removed and the lantern bracket repaired.

Scaffolding has been put up round the gate but no roads will be closed except under the arch itself. Access to and from North Street from the A259 around the gate will continue as usual.

Work is expected to continue through to November.