Further masonry falls from statue of Lord Hill in Shrewsbury
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 Thursday, landing outside the fencing that was already in place.
The Column has been surrounded by fencing since April 2012 when a small piece fell from the statue’s left hand.
Last month, 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.”
Completed in June 1816 The Column was erected in honour of the Right Honourable Rowland Lord Hill. Born at Prees Hall, near Hawkstone in April 1772, Lord Hill fought alongside the Duke of Wellington at the Battle of Waterloo. The Column was erected to recognise his valour in this and other campaigns.
The Grade II listed Column is the largest Grecian Doric column in the world, at 133 feet 6 inches. Its diameter is two feet wider than Nelson's Column and, not including the pedestal, it is 13 feet higher.
