Market Cross visible to public again

Kells's famous Market Cross is once again visible to the public and has been seen by a substantial number of tourists since the protective fencing and scaffolding around it were removed last week. The cross was hidden from view for many weeks as work began to repair the protective structure around the cross, but it has emerged that it will take a minimum of six to eight weeks to complete this work. Concern had been expressed about the impact on tourism to the town of having the monument covered up for so long. Consultants have advised the council that the works required will take up to eight weeks. The council has decided to carry out the works on a phased basis. Phase one, which began last week, involved removing the existing damaged glass panels along with the temporary protective cover around the cross and scaffolding, leaving the cross open to viewing by the public. The protective measures around the cross will have to be reinstated for phase two, which will involve repairs to the stainless steel frame and replacement of the glass canopy. Kells Town Council had provided funds towards the replacement of glass panels in its 2010 budget, but when scaffolding was erected to replace the panels, closer examination of the stainless steel canopy revealed other structural issues that required specialised work.