Bosses are preparing to say bye bye to buddleia when plants growing from the sides of the Red House Glass Cone are removed this week.

Several of the plants have taken root in the mortar of the 17th century building and their removal is necessary to ensure the long-term preservation of this important local landmark.

The Red House Glass Cone is one of only four cones remaining in Britain and is the most complete example in Europe – the other three are located in Scotland, Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Sheffield. It is Grade II* listed and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. 

A cherry picker will be used to remove the plants and mortar which is made to the original 1780s recipe will be used to repair any damaged joints. The work is expected to take around a week to complete and will start today as the cone’s busy summer season comes to an end.

The Red House Glass Cone was built in the late 18th century by Richard Bradley. It functioned as a glassworks until 1936 when Stuart Crystal moved production (literally) to the other side of the road into a purpose built factory unit. However the site still housed their retail premises and storage facilities until the brand was sold to Waterford in 2001. The site opened as a visitor attraction in March 2002 and has continued to be a key borough tourist attraction.

Cllr Khurshid Ahmed, cabinet member for planning and economic development 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, High Street, Wordsley, is open 10am – 3pm Monday to Friday and 11am – 4pm at the weekends. Admission is free.