Man seeks retrospective permission for 9-foot slag bank crucifixion statue tribute to late wife

A crucifix put up without permission on a coastal hill overlooking the sea in Workington, Cumbria, has been granted a brief reprieve as talks continue about its fate.



Peter Nelson, 49, erected the 9ft cross on the seat at the top of the town’s slag banks in memory of his wife Angela, who died in March. Mr Nelson and friends cemented the statue to an existing stone seat.

He chose the spot because he and Angela had spent so much time on the cliffs, walking their dogs. Her ashes were also scattered nearby. But he did not get planning permission from the landowner, Cumbria County Council. The authority said it had entered into discussions with Mr Nelson and will continue to talk to him about the statue.



Mr Nelson has written to the council and asked for more time so he can apply for retrospective permission, continue to take advice from “interested parties” and discuss where the crucifix could go if it has to be removed. He said: “My intentions were never to cause any ill feelings or trouble. I feel it is an asset and enhances the area and I am aware that many people are enjoying its presence.”