Jennyann, I don't think what you called capping stones (actually called quoining, pronounced coining) have been removed, they are now dark ones. Whether they have been replaced or painted, I don't know. They would be part of the structure I think, rather than just for show. Perhaps the same has happened to the chimneys. I am not sure, but I think the building would have been listed, so every alteration would have to go before either Conservation and/or English Heritage. Personally I think it is a shame, that they have wished to keep the building but change it from its original. I used to work for a firm of Building Surveyors and restoration was our main income, so I am perhaps biased. I am one of those slightly odd folk who would have never given anyone permission to demolish anything - ever! Look at that fabulous picture of Union Street posted a short while ago - why on earth would anyone wish to demolish such an elegant building, it is completely beyond me.