A FOUNDATION stone which marked the start of building work on Colchester’s town hall has been replaced after fears it was crumbling away.

The newly carved stone was unveiled at the town hall by Lib Dem councillor David King and Colchester High Steward Sir Bob Russell, the town’s former MP and mayor.

The new stone - made from the same material used to build St Paul’s Cathedral’s - replaces the original which had become unreadable.

The stone was put in place to mark the start of construction work on the 121-year-old building in 1898.

Sir Bob said: “Following last year’s Mayor Making ceremony, I told councillors that the town hall foundation stone was crumbling away and that I was anxious it should be attended to, in case some should consider it symbolic.

“Said in the spirit of jest, but more seriously of concern for this important visual part to our famous town hall, I am grateful the council listened and has taken the right action to restore the foundation stone for present and future generations, as well as in acknowledgement to the visionary councillors of 121 years ago who built our wonderful town hall – a symbol of civic pride.”

Some of the original stone was cut back and a new piece containing the restored inscription placed on top. 

Mr King said: “We are fortunate to have at the heart of our civic life one of the best examples of late-Victorian municipal architecture in the country.

“Given the cultural significance, and in line with the advice of Historic England, it was decided to replace the foundation stone to keep the best of our history in the best possible shape.

“With proper care and maintenance, it ought to remain a prominent feature and help to document the history of the building for at least another 100 years.”

The foundation stone can be seen just above ground level close on Colchester Town Hall close to the junction between High Street and West Stockwell Street.