Plans for a national monument commemorating the historic Battle of Worcester may be scrapped as the government re-evaluates £5 million in Levelling Up funding promised to the city.
The statue, designed to honour the final and decisive battle of the English Civil War, was earmarked to receive £50,000 in government funding, with the remainder already raised by local groups. However, without the government’s contribution, this project of national significance is at risk of being left unfinished.
The Battle of Worcester marked a turning point in British history, bringing an end to the Civil War and shaping the country’s future. Worcester’s role in this conflict makes it a cornerstone of the UK’s national heritage, and the proposed statue would highlight the city’s importance on a national level. Yet now, with government funding plans in doubt, the future of this monument is uncertain.
Jessie Jagger, Liberal Democrat Group Leader on Worcester City Council, emphasised the importance of the statue and called on the community to take action. “The Battle of Worcester is a defining chapter in British history, and this statue would ensure that our city’s role in shaping the nation is recognised,” Jagger said. “I don’t want an incomplete statue to become a symbol of the broken promises from successive governments to the people of Worcester.”
The Levelling Up funding would support several other cultural and heritage projects in Worcester. In addition to the Battle of Worcester statue, projects include new education centres at the City Art Gallery and Tudor House Museum, expanded public spaces as part of the Scala and Corn Exchange redevelopment. Without this funding, these plans may be scaled back or shelved entirely, affecting Worcester’s cultural and community growth.
Mel Allcott, Worcester’s Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesperson, called for Westminster to recognise the importance of Worcester’s heritage. “Worcester’s role in the Civil War is a part of our national story. This statue isn’t just for our city; it’s for the country,” Allcott said. “Westminster cannot take Worcester for granted. We need to send a message that our city and its heritage deserve the government’s support, and we won’t sit quietly while these promises are reconsidered.”
With only six weeks left on the government’s “light touch” consultation, Worcester’s Liberal Democrats are urging residents to contact key decision-makers and advocate for the Levelling Up funding:
Tom Collins, MP for Worcester: Tom.collins.mp@parliament.uk
Rachel Reeves: Chancellor of the Exchequer: Rachel.reeves.mp@parliament.uk
Angela Rayner: Deputy Prime Minister, and Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government: angela.rayner.mp@parliament.uk
Darren Jones: Chair of the Business and Trade Select Committee: darren.jones.mp@parliament.uk
Email templates are available on the Worcester Liberal Democrat website.
Together, Worcester can make sure its heritage is respected and its projects supported, allowing the Battle of Worcester statue and other vital initiatives to move forward.
