A landmark statue in Erdington had urgent work undertaken in the past week after it was found to be in need of repair.
The Josiah Mason bust in the centre of the roundabout at the junction of Chester Road and Orphanage Road needed of vital remedial work as it was leaning – akin to the famous tower in Pisa!
The statue has become a local point of interest for motorists and pedestrians and is often dressed up, such as in Santa hats at Christmas, or draped in an Irish flag for St Patrick’s Day, marking key dates in the year. But when passers-by spotted workers on scaffolding beside it, it sparked concern on social media.
Elaine Jackson, whose husband spotted the staff attending to the statue, said: “Josiah getting a makeover. Looks like it will be a long process. We'll have to change our description when giving road directions. He'll no longer be the 'green man' in the middle of the island!”
Birmingham Museums Trust oversees the care of part of the city’s public art collection, on behalf of Birmingham City Council, including the bust of Sir Josiah Mason in Erdington.
The trust said as part of regular maintenance, Birmingham Museums Trust has commissioned the work to the statue, which is being carried out by Mareva Conservation.
A spokeswoman for Birmingham Museums Trust said: “The statue was leaning significantly and the work will straighten and secure the statue so it is safe, enabling it to stand proudly for many more years to come.
“Much of the conservation work for public art managed by Birmingham Museums Trust takes place in situ to ensure statues remain within the public realm.
“For example, the Queen Victoria statue is currently undergoing conservation cleaning in Victoria Square in Birmingham City Centre. Birmingham Museums Trust , in partnership with Birmingham Civic Society, is commissioning the cleaning work to mark the society’s centenary celebrations.”
Rob Lewis, collections care manager at Birmingham Museums Trust, added: “Caring for public art in the city is an important part of our remit and something we take great pride in. We know local residents are very fond of the Josiah Mason statue and we are pleased to have overseen the vital maintenance work.”
