A RESTORATION project at a landmark building in Dudley is revealing historic secrets from the last century.

The Fountain Arcade is currently undergoing a major renovation as part of Dudley Council’s Townscape Heritage Initiative which aims to restore the Tower Street side of the building to its former art deco glory.

Since the project began on the locally listed building in April, contractors have discovered previously covered-up leaded fanlights and elegant cream-coloured tiles underneath rendering.

Councillor Judy Foster, Dudley cabinet member for regeneration, said: “Dudley has many historic buildings. The Fountain Arcade is the latest in a string of schemes that we are bringing forward to ensure that our proud architectural heritage is revealed and secured for future generations.

“At the same time we hope that improving the Arcade will increase the number of customers who visit the shops and businesses within its walls.”

The project is being funded by cash from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Dudley Council, English Heritage and the Housing and Communities Agency.

It includes repairs to windows and stonework, as well as reinstating lost architectural features, such as opening up blocked-up windows, reinstating stone detailing to the pediment on the gable and installing new shop fronts.