Built in 1809 as a semaphore signalling post communicating with Sark and the other Channel Islands, Telegraph Tower reported on French naval movements out of Cherbourg and in the Alderney Race for the duration of the Napoleonic Wars.
Since Telegraph Tower was renovated and opened to the public in July 2025 by Visit Alderney, increasing concern has been expressed regarding the worsening condition of its internal fabric due to continuing damp penetration. Close examination of the external masonry has revealed open joints and defects in the facing work, particularly around window openings where the most serious penetration has occurred.
The General Services Committee are to consider what work will be required to remedy this continuing problem with one of the States' most well known and prominent historic properties, and to take steps for putting essential conservation work in hand, hopefully before the onset of winter.
After an earlier intervention following their support for the opening of the tower to the public, the Trustees of The Henry Euler Memorial Trust have now offered financial assistance with this vital work.
Open joints are visible to lintel beds and window cills externally.
Previous unsuccessful attempts at repointing window reveals.
General interior deterioration caused by water penetration.