Lynn's historic gateway 'in danger' claim
ONE of Lynn's most famous landmarks is at risk and needs immediate action to stop it falling down, a resident fears.
Robert Hutches is calling for vehicles to be diverted around Lynn’s historic South Gates after noticing on Wednesday that a chunk of stonework had been knocked off a corner of the building.
Mr Hutches, of Beloe Crescent, South Lynn, said: “It saddens me to see all the traffic going through there. Lorries catch the brickwork and driving underneath you can see it’s in a sad state through wear and tear.”
West Norfolk Council, which is responsible for maintaining the brick and stone archway, said the stone was going to be rebedded and the structure was generally sound.
Mr Hutches (45), said the South Gates, completed in 1520, are the most important landmark in the town after the Custom House. “We are in danger of losing them,” he hit out.
Millions of pounds has been spent refurbishing Greyfriars Tower and The Walks but Mr Hutches said: “I think it’s time we should save the South Gates. It’s the gateway into the town. I truly believe something needs to be done now,” he said.
A council spokesman said a conservation officer had been to inspect the building. “We were aware of the stone which has been dislodged and a contractor has been contacted.” The repair could not be carried out immediately.
“Getting any work done on the South Gates requires closure of the road and we are waiting for an appropriate time,” she said.
The archway itself was well-maintained and it was capable of coping with the vibrations of the traffic. Further repairs were needed to two windows and the work would be carried out shortly, she added.
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Weather for King's Lynn
Thursday 09 February 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: -2 C to 1 C
Wind Speed: 3 mph
Wind direction: South west
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Sunny spells
Temperature: -7 C to 1 C
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