Winchester residents have been celebrating the completion of the rebuilding of their historic boundary wall.

As previously reported, for the last four months North Walls  has seen congestion caused by the scaffolding needed by Evolution 5 and Traditional Stone, the companies entrusted with the specialist flint-work.

The work is the culmination of a 15-year battle with local authorities and heritage agencies by the Marston Gate Management Company and Belgarum Property Management Ltd to get the necessary advice and approvals.

READ MORE: Winchester business which uses AI to help people buy shoes nominated for UK award

The works were originally scheduled for the summer of 2023 but were delayed until “further notice” due to additional tests being needed following discussions between the contractors and Historic England.

North Walls marks the northern line of the city's defences originally built in Roman times and upgraded in the Middle Ages.

Hampshire Chronicle: Scaffolding up at North Walls when the works were being completedScaffolding up at North Walls when the works were being completed (Image: Adele Bouchard)

A spokesperson for MGMC said: "The work has been carried out without any public support, with costs of more than a quarter of a million pounds borne entirely by the residents.

"For many of us it was a great shock to discover that the development by Banner Homes, which was carried out in 1999, had only been authorized on the condition that the wall was maintained at the expense of residents.

"These major repairs have involved rebuilding entire sections and now return the wall to good condition. Any future maintenance will be minimal.

SEE ALSO: Winchester trains affected as lines blocked at Basingstoke in security alert

"Although dating mostly from Victorian times, the wall runs along the line of the ancient City Wall, which has made it extremely difficult to proceed in a sensible way. As well as photographic surveys, the exercise has involved chemical analysis of the mortar to get the right mix for repairs.

"Flint walls are typical of Winchester, and help to make the city a pleasant place. We have always taken a responsible position on its repair, and are pleased that it is now in good order."