Quadriga was appointed to undertake specialist stone conservation works to the 7th Battalion Memorial in Manchester, involving the replacement of a deteriorated section within the monument while retaining the surrounding historic fabric.
To facilitate the operation, a scaffold structure incorporating a lifting beam was erected directly above the monument. The existing stone section was carefully supported using lifting straps before precision cuts were made to separate the damaged element from the structure. The upper and lower sections were then safely removed using chain blocks, allowing the defective central section to be extracted without disturbing adjacent masonry.
Following removal, the remaining original stonework was drilled and prepared to receive a replacement section. The removed stone was used as a template to produce an accurate replica, ensuring the new work matched the original profile and detailing.
Once the replacement stone had been manufactured, it was returned to site and dry-fitted to verify dimensional accuracy. The monument was then reassembled using stainless steel dowels bonded with two-part epoxy resin, providing a secure structural connection between the existing and replacement elements. The upper section of the monument was carefully lowered into position using chain blocks, with epoxy resin introduced into the dowel sockets to achieve a permanent bond.
The completed works restored the structural integrity of the memorial while preserving its historic appearance and significance.
Historical Significance
The memorial commemorates the officers and men of the 7th Battalion, Manchester Regiment who lost their lives during the First World War. As part of the 42nd (East Lancashire) Division, the battalion served in several major campaigns, including Gallipoli, Egypt and the Western Front.
Unveiled in 1933, the monument serves as a lasting tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and remains an important part of Manchester’s military and civic heritage. Through careful conservation and repair, the memorial has been preserved to ensure it continues to fulfil its commemorative purpose for future generations.
