Scarborough divided over £50,000 Freddie Gilroy statue relocation plan
Residents have questioned plans to spend an estimated £50,000 relocating Scarborough’s Freddie Gilroy and the Belsen Stragglers statue, with several arguing the much-loved landmark should remain where it is.
The proposal would move the iconic seafront sculpture around 200 metres to a more sheltered spot on Royal Albert Drive as part of restoration work intended to protect it from further weather-related deterioration.
Ahead of a decision on the plans, residents took to social media to voice concerns about both the relocation and the scheme’s projected cost.
Wendy said: “Freddie needs to stay where he is.”
Jeanette added: “Leave him alone.”
Andrew stated: Just moving it a bit higher- how does that cost £50,000? I’ll do it for £49,000.”
Beacon added: “I’ll move it for £20,000.”
Others suggested regular maintenance would be a better solution than relocation.
William wrote: “Had a look today, there doesn’t seem to be obvious corrosion. Who is supplying these crazy quotes? Give the statue regular maintenance and oiling, problem solved.”
Several residents also questioned whether the estimated £50,000 cost represented good value for money.
Ian said: “Just leave it where it is! Wasting money moving it! The money could be spent better elsewhere!!!”
However, not all residents opposed the proposal.
Alan supported efforts to protect the sculpture, commenting: “It is vital that this important statue is preserved. Well done, Scarborough Town Council.”
Others argued that attention should also be paid to the surrounding area.
Barrie wrote: “Just went past it four weeks ago, very nice but the board telling who it is has been vandalised. The so-called park up the hillside is in need of cutting and tidying up, and broken seats replaced.”
North Yorkshire Council wants to relocate the sculpture to a more sheltered position overlooking the seafront as part of a restoration scheme aimed at extending the life of the artwork.
Officers have said the statue’s exposed position has left the sculpture increasingly vulnerable to weather and sea conditions and that relocating it could extend its lifespan by a further 15 years.
The statue, created by sculptor Ray Lonsdale, depicts Freddie Gilroy, a veteran involved in the liberation of Bergen-Belsen concentration camp during the Second World War, sitting on a bench in later life.
Council officers say the Corten steel sculpture has become increasingly exposed to harsh weather conditions and that moving it to a less exposed location could help protect it for future generations.
Under the proposals, Scarborough Town Council could contribute £10,000 towards the project and take over responsibility for the landmark’s future management and maintenance.
A full meeting of Scarborough Town Council will discuss the proposal on Tuesday, October 27.