A MUCH missed monument looks set to be rebuilt by Christmas.

Work on Sandiway's historic Round Tower is expected to start in September, almost a year since a car ploughed into it and led to its demolition.

Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC) agreed to the reconstruction but had to apply to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government for a final decision because the council owns the Grade II listed structure itself.

Clr Charles Fifield said: “The council stated its commitment from the outset to reinstate this cherished landmark and I am delighted that we are on track to return it to its rightful place by Christmas.

“Our property and conservation officers have prepared a detailed application to the Secretary of State with a full description of the original building and our plans for reconstruction.

“It outlines the traditional methods and materials that will be used, including the reuse of as much original fabric as possible.

“We are hopeful of a positive outcome within the next four weeks, which will allow us to reconstruct the walls during September and October when the weather is expected to be suitable for the specialist techniques required.”

The tower, a Gothic-style gate lodge to the former Vale Royal New Park, was destroyed in the the car crash in November 2013.

CWAC said it recovered as many of the sandstone blocks as possible to use in the reinstated structure but some sections need to be replaced.

Clr Val Godfrey, from Cuddington and Sandiway Parish Council, said: "We are delighted by CWAC's commitment to rebuilding the Round Tower.

"We look forward to celebrating its completion.

"It's not only residents of the village who have been pursuing the question of its rebuilding but people from a much wider area who were concerned to note its disappearance.

"The Round Tower is so much more than just a local landmark, its very much part of the history of our village. "

The gap in the central reservation of the A556 at its junction with Norley Road will be closed during the work and a temporary speed limits will be in place.

Subject to the Secretary of State's approval the Traffic Regulation Order will come into force on September 15 and work is expected to begin on site soon afterwards.