Dominating the skyline and commanding stunning views across Lincoln, the Memorial Spire is the UK’s tallest war memorial and the striking centrepiece of the IBCC. Its design comprises two ‘wing’ fragments tapering towards the sky and orientated to turn visitors’ eyes towards Lincoln Cathedral.
The Spire’s iconic design was chosen following an Arts Council-funded competition and wide consultation involving veterans, volunteers and the local community. Constructed from Corten-A weathering steel – the same material as the Angel of the North, just outside Gateshead – it was built by SH Structures of Otley. The architects for both the Spire and the IBCC were the Lincoln-based company, Place Architecture.
Early in the morning of 10 May 2015, the Spire arrived on two low loaders, along with a police escort. The steel was erected on site in around seven hours by the Lincolnshire-based company, Lindum Group. Many of those involved in its construction have family connections with those who served with Bomber Command. You can watch the film taken on the day here.
“Our team were really blown away by the site and we didn’t stop talking about it over lunch in the Hub Café afterwards.”
“What a beautiful memorial for our war heroes. They should never be forgotten.”
“So, so impressive and very emotive. The sacrifice of so many brought to light in a spectacular way.”
