Fencing extended around The Column

Fencing surrounding The Column in Shrewsbury has been extended as a safety precaution, after a small piece of masonry fell from the statute of Lord Hill on Thursday last week (6 December 2012), landing outside the fencing that was already in place. 

Extending the perimeter of the fencing means that vehicles will be unable to access Processional Way – which leads from the Column to the Crown Court – and will be unable to use the disabled parking bays outside the court entrance. 

While the disabled parking bays are unavailable, temporary disabled parking is being provided at the bottom end of the Shirehall Car Park adjacent to the Magistrates’ Court. 

Signage at the Preston Street entrance to Processional Way will direct those needing disabled parking to this temporary parking. 

It is hoped that extending the perimeter of the fencing, and restricting access to Processional Way, will be a temporary measure. 

The Column has been surrounded by fencing since April 2012 when a small piece fell from the statue’s left hand.  In November, conservation experts carried out an inspection of the statue to assess the extent of the damage and what repairs may be needed.  Their report is due to be presented to Shropshire Council early next year and the council will then consider options for the future of the statue. 

Keith Barrow, Leader of Shropshire Council, said:

“The initial findings of the inspection were that there was some damage to Lord Hill’s left arm.  Lord Hill famously fought in a number of battles, but his biggest enemy at the moment is rain and frost getting under the surface and causing pieces to break off. 

“Given the statue’s current state and the likely cold spell ahead, we’ve had to extend the perimeter of the fencing to help protect passers-by.  But we hope this will only be for a short time, and that we can soon reopen the access route for vehicles to the courts and front of Shirehall.”