Town's landmark statue to undergo more repairs

The initial work on the statue of Lord Hill will continue into the autumn

Essential repair work to preserve a landmark statue is set to be carried out this month.

The statue of Lord Hill, which stands on top of The Column in Shrewsbury, is "fragile, vulnerable to bad weather, and in need of further repairs to keep passers-by safe", Shropshire Council said.

It has undergone repair work in recent years, but further work was needed on the listed statue.

Specialist heritage contractor Curry & Phillips will carry out the "significant remedial repair work", which will start in the week commencing 25 August and continue into the autumn.

Repair work has previously been carried out on the listed statue

"We appreciate the community's support and understanding as we undertake these vital repairs to preserve the Lord Hill statue and will ensure minimal disruption to the surrounding area," a spokesperson said.

Information panels providing passers-by with details about Lord Hill and The Column will be placed on the fencing around The Column during the work.

Lord Hill's Column was built between 1814 and 1816 and received its designation of Grade II* Listing in 1953, the council said. It is 13ft (4m) higher than Nelson's Column in London.

In January 2024, inspections were carried out after debris fell from the statue to the ground.