Restoration of the historic Cemetery Arch commences. Repairs address structural issues and prepare for community use.
They will put scaffolding around the arch. Stonework repairs happen next. They’ll fix cracks and re-point stones. Workers took the gates away, and they will repair and repaint them.
These arch repairs will take about twelve weeks, depending on the weather. After that, people can fully use the arch again. People can still access the cemetery, but access will be limited for safety.
Last year, engineers checked the arch and said some stones might fall. That’s why they are doing this work now. Reading Council is making improvements.
JAHA wants to build a hub there too. It will be for arts and community heritage. The Council said JAHA can apply for funding. This could help them make their idea real.
Micky Leng is a councillor for Reading. He said the arch needs repairs because the stonework makes it special. The arch is from the 1840s, so the stone needs fixes sometimes. The engineer’s check showed this need.
Leng said JAHA has big plans for the arch. They want a community hub for arts. This will help the Reading landmark. The Council met with JAHA and discussed the plans and next steps. JAHA needs lottery funding to succeed.
The Council wants the arch used again. A project that helps the town is ideal. That’s why JAHA got more time. Nick Cooksey had a vision for the arch, and JAHA wants to honor his legacy.