The cross features panels detailing the history of St Helier and was unveiled by then-Constable Peter Baker.
Pictured: La Croix de la Reine at the Charing Cross unveiling ceremony in 1978.
A recent planning application proposes converting the existing granite planters at the base of La Croix de la Reine into a new water feature and seating.
The planning application contains a Heritage Impact Statement which reiterates the fact that “no works will be carried out on the listed cross”.
The Heritage Impact Statement says that the proposed water feature and granite seating will give the monument a “more distinctive character”, explaining that the granite planters “were built with random granite of poorer quality and different style than the cross itself”.
It concludes that “decluttering the listed place and enhancing the poor quality feature (planters) will add to the character of the existing streetscape and will have an overall positive effect on surrounding listed building”.
Pictured: The planning application proposes converting the existing granite planters at the base of La Croix de la Reine into a new water feature and seating.
However, the application has attracted public comments from islanders who believe that “the planters form an integral part of the monument”.
Amanda Le Boutillier said: “Her Late Majesty was famously photographed being introduced to her Head Coachman (and Jerseyman) Arthur Showell’s mother, Hosanna, who was standing on one of the planters.”
“I ask that these small but beautiful and historic planters, a wonderful tribute to Her Late Majesty, commemorating both her Silver Jubilee and her 1978 visit to the island, be left alone and not turned into a glorified horse trough.”
Pictured: “Her Late Majesty was famously photographed being introduced to her Head Coachman (and Jerseyman) Arthur Showell’s mother, Hosanna, who was standing on one of the planters.”
“I didn’t vote to increase my rates this year at the Parish Assembly for there to be less greenery in the centre of St Helier,” said parishioner James Sheedy. “I voted for more.”
Sonia Le Clerca said that she was “appalled that this is even being considered”.
She explained: “This monument was erected at Charing Cross to commemorate Queen Elizabeth Il’s Silver Jubilee in 1977. It is iconic, beautifully kept as it has flowers which are sincerely lacking in St Helier.
“Please don’t change what is a wonderful commemoration to a Queen who served for such a long time.”
The full planing application can be viewed online.
LISTEN…
Listen to the 1978 episode of Bailiwick Express’s series ‘The Queen and Jersey’, marking each of Her Majesty’s visits to the island, below or via your preferred podcast provider…
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The Queen’s visits to Jersey: 1978
FOCUS: Why Jersey has the Silver Jubilee to thank for its flag