Coventry Cross move now sparks fears parts of historic monument could be lostPLANS to relocate the historic Coventry Cross have now sparked fears that parts of the monument could be lost.
Heritage group the Coventry Society has raised fresh concerns after a planning application was submitted by Coventry City Council.
As we reported last month, proposals to relocate and restore the sculpture to outside Primark and Greggs sparked anger – and are set to cost the taxpayer £150,000.
But a council spokesperson has acknowledged this budget only covers the ‘dismantling and cleaning’ of the Cross – and not its restoration.
The society is concerned parts of the monument may be demolished, with parts needing to be totally reconstructed.
They also fear that – like the much-loved Naiad statue finally back on display at Friargate – it could be placed in storage and hidden from public view.
The society’s Paul Maddocks said: “The City Council has been asked about the total cost of restoring the sculpture and re-erecting it and is not able to answer the question.
“They say that until the existing cross is dismantled and they have been able to assess the fixing arrangements, existing steel frame and other key elements no final cost can be provided from contractors.
“However we have heard from a reliable source that the total cost is likely to be in the region of £500,000, leaving a shortfall of around £350,000.
“We also question why the public sector is being asked to pay for a relocation which only appears to benefit one business.”
The society and Mr Wagstaff had previously expressed concerns the sculpture is out of character with the modern architecture which surrounds its new position.
They claim the monument was designed specifically to be part of the city’s medieval quarter.