Mimithecat wrote:
My only major concern is the ongoing damage of the corrosive seawater.
Mimithecat, I hate name droppers...however, I have talked to Gormley about this
(clang!!!) a while back and he said that if 'Another Place' is to stay at Crosby long term, which is now the case, the sculptures can be coated in a protective chemical which would make them close to invincible.
However, I don't think this process has yet been carried out. It would involve each being taken out, treated and replaced, so it will cost a fair whack and also take time.
I am presuming it is part of the funding package which Another Place Ltd, Sefton Council, The Northern Way and North West Development Agency are still haggling over.
Sixteen of the sculptures from the north end towards Blundellsands and Hightown were temporarily removed last July and are due to be replaced nearer the promenade where stray yachts should not venture.
Meanwhile, some of the Iron Men are looking weathered which arguably adds to their charm, but which also gives fuel to the critics who predict they will be left to rust away.
The bigger threat comes from local Tories who never took to them because they did not like the idea of grubby tourists flocking to the area, spending cash and being happy. They would love funding to secure the long-term future being scuppered.
I think the Iron Men will outlast most of us.