A beloved landmark, the Lansdowne Monument, has been shrouded in scaffolding for an astonishing 15 years, sparking frustration and disappointment among locals. This iconic obelisk, nestled amidst the picturesque hills of Wiltshire, has become a source of contention as its restoration seems to be moving at a snail's pace.
But here's where it gets controversial: the National Trust, the monument's owner, has faced criticism for the delay. While they assure the public of their intentions to remove the scaffolding once repairs are complete, locals like Deb Bassett, a resident of nearby Calne, express their disillusionment. She questions, "What else can we do?"
The 38-meter-tall obelisk, built in 1845, has weathered the elements, leading to necessary repairs. However, the protective hoarding and netting have become an eyesore, and Bassett, who has walked up to the monument since 1992, laments the sight of "disgusting scaffolding." She and other locals have been advocating for its restoration since 2018.
And this is the part most people miss: the monument's location on an Iron Age hillfort and its status as a site of special scientific interest complicate the repair process. The National Trust spokesperson acknowledges the challenges, stating that feasibility studies and research have guided their conservation efforts, with repair work commencing in 2024. Evaluations of the initial repairs are ongoing, and the next phase is planned for spring 2026.
Despite the progress, some, like Glenis Ansell, a former mayor of Calne, feel let down by the National Trust's handling of the situation. On the other hand, Andrew Sadler-Smith, from Cherhill Parish Council, commends the Trust's recent communication and positive approach.
So, is the Lansdowne Monument's restoration finally on track, or will it remain a controversial topic among locals? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss!
