WORKS to relocate the St Peter's Square cenotaph as part of a Metrolink expansion and wider St Peter's rethink have been completed.
“In moving the cenotaph we have finally realised a truly distinctive area of the city centre that is fitting to the memorial and a real tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our city and our country."
The cenotaph now has a 'superior setting' at the Cooper Street entrance to the Town Hall, a mere stones throw from its original spot (erected in 1924) outside the Central Library, creating a wider and brighter public space for commemorative events.
Works started back in January 2014 to allow development of the Metrolink Second City Crossing (due to finish in 2017) following consultation with war veteran groups, heritage and conservations specialists and church authorities - support for the relocation and new design has been broad.
St Peter's Square and former cenotaph location in front of Central Library
Portland stone (the preferred stone for cenotaphs, including the Whitehall memorial) has been used to match the stone used when the cenotaph was originally designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. Expert carvers have been brought in to re-cut weathered lettering and conservation works have been carried out to 'museum standard'.
The new design has been heavily influenced by Lutyens’ original, which was changed after World War Two to integrate a garden area of quiet contemplation.
Further to the relocation of the cenotaph and to allow the Metrolink Second City Cross tracks and tram stop to be constructed, the St Peter’s Cross – which marks the location of the demolished church once on the site – will be placed in storage and returned when the works are completed.
Cenotaph's new location
Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “In moving the cenotaph we have finally realised a truly distinctive area of the city centre that is fitting to the memorial and a real tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our city and our country.
“Respect for what the cenotaph represents has always been central to these plans and we thank the veterans’ and heritage groups for their input. The completion this week will allow veterans and members of the public enough time to familiarise themselves with the new cenotaph ahead of the 2014 Remembrance Sunday commemoration in November.”
Fencing will remain surrounding the new cenotaph until public realm works in St Peter’s Square in front of the refurbished Town Hall Extension and Central Library are completed at the end of September.
Coinciding with the completion, a service will be held to mark the relocation of the cenotaph in October.
