Plaid Cymru’s Chris Franks has welcomed news that funding will be granted to several notable local landmarks.
The AM for South Wales Central was speaking after Heritage Minister Alun Ffred Jones announced nearly £1m of funding as part of the Welsh Assembly Government’s historic building grants.
Among the beneficiaries is one of Cardiff’s best loved landmarks; the Animal Wall, on Castle Street. Designed by William Burges as part of the Cardiff Castle complex, it will now receive £62,922 towards repairs, which will include re-pointing and restoration of metal railings, as well as work on the famous stone animals.
Other landmarks to benefit in the South Wales Central region include St Mellon’s Church on the outskirts of Cardiff and St Edeyrn’s Church in Old Llanedyrn Village. St Mellon’s Church will receive £10,000 towards works on the re-slating of the chancel roof. The medieval St Edeyrn’s will have £12,000 towards lime washing of the exterior of the church.
Mr Franks said: “I am pleased that these landmarks will benefit from the Welsh Assembly Government’s historic building grant. We are lucky that in Wales we have a rich and varied history and at Plaid Cymru we believe it is very important to look after our relics.
“Not only is it important to preserve them for future generations, but they are also focal points for tourists.”
He added: “I am particularly happy that efforts are being to restore the Animal Wall to its former glory. This is a unique selling point for our capital city and we must do all we can to make sure it is protected.”
