POPULAR Wordsley tourist attraction the Red House Glass Cone is currently undergoing restoration to remove plants which have embedded into the landmark.

Over the years, several buddleia plants have taken root in the motor of the 17th century building and they are being removed throughout this week.

Staff at the cone said the removal of the plants, which is costing £8,500, is necessary to ensure the long-term preservation of the local landmark.

A cherry picker is being used to remove the plants and mortar, which is made to the original 1780s filling, will be used to repair any damaged joints.

The work on the Dudley Council-run building started on Monday (September 12) is expected to take around a week to complete.

Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, cabinet member responsible for tourism, said: “The Red House Glass Cone is an iconic part of the Wordsley sky line and a mark of Black Country pride in the region’s glassmaking heritage.

“Maintaining it is important not only for the cone’s long-term structural integrity but also for civic pride in this impressive structure which continues to be a popular visitor attraction and creative business hub.”

The Red House Glass Cone, one of only four cones remaining in Britain, was built between 1788 and 1794 by Richard Bradley and functioned as a glassworks until 1936.

It is the most complete example in Europe, and as a Grade II listed ‘Scheduled Ancient Monument’, the site was still used for storage by then owners Stuart Crystal until the factory closed in 2001.

The site opened as a visitor attraction in March 2002 where it has been a key tourist attraction throughout the borough.

The Red House Glass Cone, in High Street, is open for free between 10am and 3pm Monday to Friday and 11am until 4pm at weekends.