CIVIC chiefs say that preserving Winchester's historical assets is a "top priority".

Councillor Kelsie Learney, cabinet member for housing and asset management, has provided an update on the city council's maintenance plans.

She said: "The preservation of our historical assets is one of our top priorities.

"A detailed survey was undertaken at the end of last year for all of our scheduled ancient monuments. From this a repairs strategy will be formulated."

She added that the front of the tower at St Maurice Covert has been cordoned off due to recent reports that small sections of mortar are falling from a high level.

"A structural survey has been carried out highlighting repairs required which will be subject to a report to Cabinet in due course."

Wider improvements to the Covert involving the resurfacing of the area adjacent to Market Lane, new street furniture and a drinking fountain are already underway with the remainder of the enhancement works planned for later this year.

"Weekly cleaning of the Buttercross takes place and we are aware that fouling from pigeons is a regular issue," continued Cllr Learney.

"The recent survey indicated some repair work is necessary and we are currently developing the best approach to take care of this important city centre landmark."

Fouling from pigeons is also an issue at Hyde Abbey Gateway.

Cllr Learney said: "We are currently reviewing options for improving the protection from pigeons. In addition, a broader scheme of improvements works is being developed in the form of a landscape scheme which will involve a re-design the public realm around the Gateway by the designers who undertook the public realm works at the D Day Museum in Southsea."