A special event has been held in Bude today (May 9) to mark the launch of the Compass Point Project to relocate the iconic Storm Tower.

Five years ago conversations were held by the local council concerning the maintenance of the town’s historic Storm Tower. 

Built in 1835, the Storm Tower or “Pepperpot” as it is known to many locals, was used as a base and shelter for a coastguard overlooking the water, as well as a landmark for passing ships. Designed as an octagonal tower, it featured the eight principal points of a compass engraved on the appropriate faces. However, due to coastal erosion, the tower was rebuilt further in land around 50 year later in its life – this time no longer oriented to the points of a compass - and as coastguards became less common, the building slowly became but an elegant silhouette atop the cliff and a piece of local history. 

However, as of today, work will begin to move the iconic building away from the cliff's edge in the hopes of preserving and protecting it from erosion.

Sally Strachey, who is taking on the project, is based near Wincanton in Somerset and has an excellent reputation in the conservation of historic buildings. 

In addition to the physical re-siting of the Storm Tower, the project includes an exciting activity and educational programme for the community which the council hope to announce in the coming months.

The project is being funded by a £250,000 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, £50,000 from Cornwall Council, £40,000 from Bude-Stratton Town Council – plus £60,000 as a result of a community crowdfunding effort. It is anticipated there will be a gap of around £46,000, but the council is in the process of applying for additional support.