Spalding War Memorial work paused, but councilors praise impact of ‘significant’ restoration
Councillors have welcomed the ‘significant’ restoration work that has been carried out on a Grade I-listed War Memorial.
The project being carried out at Lutyens War Memorial in Spalding’s Ayscoughfee Gardens is currently on hold until spring to avoid damage being inflicted by working in the current weather conditions.
But the restoration of Grade I listed Lutyens War Memorial in Spalding’s Ayscoughfee Gardens has continued to make significant progress this month as a further clean and render analysis took place on the beloved monument.
The memorial is a key historical building that honours those that fought for this country in World War I, and is a place of remembrance for many who are local to South Holland.
Over the summer a specialist cleaning team performed an extensive clean of the memorial, removing dirt that has built-up over the years from rain and various other environmental factors.
Additionally, a detailed analysis took place to help understand the condition of the Memorial, including a structural analysis and render analysis.
Following this, earlier this month, a heritage contractor started work on the restoration of the war stone at the front of the memorial, including extensive repointing, repairs to the top area, restoration to cracks where possible, correcting subsidence and chip and water egress repairs.
With the completion of this part of the project, hands-on restoration will stop for the remainder of the year, to avoid the risk of causing damage by working during cold or wet weather.
During this time the council will continue to prepare for things to begin again in Spring, ensuring the highest quality contractors are available for more extensive works to take place including Herringbone brick replacement and stone edgings and pillar repairs.
Coun Henry Bingham, portfolio holder for assets and strategic planning, said: “This significant piece of work has been long overdue, and I am delighted that we are now making good progress in restoring this important local monument thanks to the council’s assets team, who have worked incredibly hard to coordinate and organise this restoration.
“It is vital that any work is carried out with the level of care needed for such a historic listed memorial, and although this means work will not be finished as quickly as we may like, it is imperative to helping ensure its protection and prestige for many years to come.”
Coun Elizabeth Sneath, portfolio holder for conservation and heritage, said: “The Lutyens Memorial and Ayscoughfee more widely are jewels in South Holland’s crown, providing beautiful settings for residents and visitors to enjoy, whilst also providing an important and sombre reminder of our history and the sacrifices that so many made to protect us.
“I am so pleased to see the work underway and making such notable progress, and that the team have worked hard to help it look as good as possible ahead of the Remembrance Day events.
“I am looking forward to seeing further work take place next year to restore the memorial, and thank people for their patience and support as the council works to protect this unique and poignant landmark.”
