The current phase of conservation works began in 1978 when some urgent repairs were made to a collapsed wall in the Monastery. The initial programme of works concentrated on the South Steps and the structures within the Monastery itself.

By the mid-1980s the focus turned to the structural preservation of the site and the need to consolidate the retaining walls, some of which were in a dangerous condition. The Small Oratory Terrace was the first of these to be completed. Works were then undertaken to both the Upper and Lower Monks’ Gardens and a number of entrances. Once work to the Monastery had been substantially completed the East and the North Steps were repaired.

Since 2004 the works programme has focused on preserving the extensive structural remains on the South Peak. This has included not only a series of terraces and platforms but also other structures relating to two phases of access routes to the peak. This challenging work including full recording was completed by the end of the 2008 season.

Further information on the conservation works programme is contained in the Management Plan which is available on this website.