Landmark Glass Cone at risk

The landmark Red House Glass Cone in Dudley is at risk unless urgent action is taken to preserve the historic building, it emerged today.

Council bosses today admitted there was "ongoing deterioration" of the 18th century structure, which has been placed on an "at risk" register compiled by the authority.

In describing the risk to the cone, one of the finest examples of its kind in the country, the report states: "Ongoing deterioration of the Red House Glass Cone and tunnels, resulting in collapse of structure and injury to visitors and staff."

Bosses say the register identifies worst case scenarios if inspections of the cone in High Street, Wordsley, are not carried out.

John Millar, director of the urban environment, said: "The Red House Glass Cone was built at the end of the 18th century and is one of the finest examples of its kind in the country.

"Any structure of this nature will have ongoing deterioration and we have to continually monitor this. The day-to-day management of the site involves staff visually monitoring the condition of the building.

"The council's nominated structural engineer does not have any immediate concerns but is currently making arrangements for the future monitoring of the cone with due regard to its special nature and significance."