ASSA has helped restore the historic clock tower at Blair Castle to its former glory with the specification of its masterkey suite and ASSA ABLOY Door Closers.

Having been devastated by a blaze last year, the 13th Century clock tower, which forms part of the iconic Blair Castle in Perthshire, has been fully restored and continues to attract visitors from all over the world. Part of the Atholl Estate, the castle is renowned for hosting annual horse trial events and Highland Games events.

The Tower, part of the original build, houses a vast library of archives, which ASSA’s Flexcore Plus masterkey system now helps to manage access to.

Specified by Architect Purcell Miller Tritton and installed by Dundee-based contractor W H Brown Construction (Dundee) Ltd., ASSA modular locks, Classic levers and concealed door closers have also been used on the restoration project.

Commenting on the project, Specification Manager for ASSA ABLOY Security Solutions, John Thain, said: “This project was a new challenge for ASSA, as not only did we have to provide the correct balance between access and security to the sensitive and priceless material stored in the archives, but we also had to consider the additional requirements and restrictions of a Grade A listed building.

“Classic styles and brass finishes were used to keep the design as sympathetic to the historic nature of the building. Whilst concealed closers were used so that crucial access devices could perform their function whilst remaining relatively undetected.

“Additional considerations included the fire regulations relating to historical Scottish properties. To that end fire-rated blanks with bespoke cladding were used on about 25doors within the iconic clock tower.”

Ian Lindsay, Managing Director for W H Brown Construction (Dundee) Ltd, added: “Despite the challenge it has been an honour to work on a project that forms such an important part of Scottish history. There were various considerations with this project from legislative requirements to multiple access restrictions and permissions. Working with a company as experienced as ASSA ABLOY in delivering bespoke solutions meant we were able to work together to install a security system that worked on both an aesthetic and practical level.”

John Thain, added: “These projects are a once in a lifetime opportunity and it has been a great team effort to provide an access solution that is both manageable in the long term and fulfills the unique brief of Blair Castle.”