Row continues over location of Nelson Mandela monument in historic Liverpool park

Relocating a newly installed artwork commemorating the life of Nelson Mandela at a historic Liverpool park is a “solution that benefits all” it has been claimed.

Almost two months ago, a permanent memorial was unveiled at Princes Park in Toxteth to mark the legacy of the former South African premier.

The artwork, commissioned by Mandela8, includes a pavilion and 32 cylindrical pillars and is situated on a man made island in the grade II listed green space.

A campaign group has now written to Liverpool Council calling for the work to be moved from its “ill conceived and impractical” location.

In an open letter to city chief Cllr Liam Robinson, and Lord Mayor Cllr Mary Rasumussen, the group named Protect The Island – Princes Park, set out why they felt the installation should be relocated. The letter, posted on social media, said: “The island has become a sanctuary for waterfowl and currently the home of nesting swans and dependent young.

“Continuous flow of footfall, dogs, predators and loud noises, especially during nesting season will distress the wildlife and impact their natural behaviours.”

About the memorial: The artwork has sought to be thematically linked to Mandela’s imprisonment on Robben Island, with the bridge – which had previously been in place at the park – symbolising his work to “build bridges, connecting people and breaking down barriers.” The cylindrical pillars, used for seating, represent how Mandela used 16 oil drums cut in half to cultivate 32 planters to make his gardens in prison.

The artwork was formally unveiled in July by the former President’s family who said how touched they were by the tribute.

The letter by the campaign group said: “We believe the location was ill conceived and impractical. Enabling a one-way access route to a secluded space surrounded by water calls into question the consideration of public safety, especially with the rise of predatory behaviour across local parks. This also places an unnecessary strain on already stretched resources, which does not benefit the public.

“Mitigating factors will also not spare the wildlife of distress or displacement.” A petition set up ahead of the formal unveiling has passed almost 3,000 signature calling for a relocation.

On a potential new position, the group wrote: “A mainland tribute is far safer, more visible and accessible for all ages and abilities, easier to clean and protect from vandalism and moves away from creating a ‘hotspot’ for crime. No individual, community or organisation is negatively impacted by relocation.

“It is a solution that benefits all and the wildlife and over ever-declining green spaces.”

Ahead of the installation being completed, Cllr Steve Munby, a former cabinet member and Dingle ward member, said cities “rely on give and take” and the work done to upgrade and restore the park “should benefit everyone.” He said “extensive” public consultation had gone into design and securing planning permission for the project.