March 23, 2015 12.25 pm This story is over 116 months old

Symbolic £10k archway to The Strait installed

Archway installed: Visitors to Lincoln will finally be able to walk under The Strait archway, after the project was completed on March 22.

Visitors to Lincoln will finally be able to walk under The Strait archway, after the £10,000 project was completed on Sunday, March 22.

The archway, which connects Lincoln city centre with Steep Hill and the cathedral quarter, was developed over a four-year period by the Bottom of the Hill Traders Association with Lincoln Business Improvement Group (Lincoln BIG).

It was designed by local artist Lea Goldberg and features icons such as James Usher’s Imp, the Magna Carta and the ordnance survey ‘M’.

In addition, a hare, goose, amphora and fish reference ancient markets and religious markings for the city’s Cathedral and Jews House.

The arch was manufactured by Seaford-based blacksmith Anwick Forge and is 2.7m high and 2.9m wide.

The project has been funded through grants and fundraising events held by local businesses.

Lincoln BIG chief executive, Matt Corrigan said: “I’m delighted that the Archway is now in place and I think that it adds interest, status and character to the important entranceway to Steep Hill and the cathedral quarter.

“It has taken time to get this in place with the artist designs competition, planning permission and highways licensing, but it’s great that it’s up in time for the all important Magna Carta celebrations this year.”

John Shipton, member of the Bottom of the Hill Traders Association, said: “I am grateful to Lincoln BIG who have been there from the start of the project and I think it will attract a lot of people.

“The area of The Strait is saturated in history and heritage, not least because of its connection with the Jewish faith.

“Hopefully in the future we will erect boards explaining the symbols and the history of the area.”The archway is a great focal point and will attract people to the independent businesses in the area.”

An opening ceremony will be held on Tuesday, April 7 at noon to celebrate.