Further steps toward Eleanor Cross work
Northampton’s Eleanor Cross is now being considered for inclusion on Historic England’s Buildings at Risk register and an application for grant funding has been made.
Northampton Borough Council is working closely with Historic England over the most appropriate way forward with the work.
Cllr Tim Hadland, Cabinet member for regeneration, enterprise and planning, said: “We know this work needs to take place urgently and we are doing everything within our power to make that happen.
“We recognise the cross is an important part of England’s heritage, and we must find a way of funding this work, which is why we’re pleased to be able to work in partnership with Historic England in moving the project forward.
“The potential for a contribution toward the work from Historic England is very welcome, given the pressures local government budgets are currently under.”
The hope is to carry out the work during the summer and autumn this year, but if this is not possible remedial measures will be taken to protect the structure throughout the winter months.
A Historic England spokesperson said: “We are very keen to ensure that the Eleanor Cross is repaired in the most appropriate and effective way, as soon as feasible. We are glad to support Northampton Borough Council in this work.”
The Cross, situated at the southern end of London Road close to Delapré Wood, was commissioned by Edward I between 1291 and 1294. Only three of twelve original monuments remain.
Each marks one of the nightly resting places of the King’s wife, Queen Eleanor of Castile’s, funeral procession between Harby, near Lincoln, to London.