MONUMENTAL OCCASION FOR THE PEOPLE OF SALTASH

Friday 24 Mar 2006

MONUMENTAL OCCASION FOR THE PEOPLE OF SALTASH

Region & Route:: | Wales & Western: Wales & Borders; | Wales & Western: Western; | Wales & Western

Brunel celebrations have started earlier than expected for the people of Saltash, after they were reunited with the Brunel monument also known as the “long lost plaque”. Network Rail and the Saltash Waterside Residents Association (SWRA) worked together to rescue the plaque from obscurity by relocating it to a prominent position beneath the piers of the Royal Albert Bridge. Robbie Burns, Network Rail’s Western Route Director, said: “This plaque is an important part of Saltash’s heritage, and I am delighted we have been able to return it to its rightful home in time for Brunel’s 200th anniversary. We will soon start work on the removal of the walkways and reveal Brunel’s name on the bridge itself.” The plaque was originally unveiled at Saltash Station in 1959 for the 150th anniversary of the Royal Albert Bridge. Since then it has been out of sight on the Plymouth side of the Tamar, hidden by undergrowth. Network Rail assisted with the recovery and transit of the three tonne monument which now takes pride of place at the entrance of Huntley Gardens, where it is now visible from the Waterside. Joe Ellison, Project Manager for SWRA and Mayor Elect for Saltash, said: “I would like to thank Network Rail on behalf of the people of Saltash for their help in returning this special monument, which will be an additional Brunel visitor attraction to the Town.“

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