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Atkins and Walter Jack Studio wins Lincoln Bomber Command Memorial job

Date uploaded: June 5, 2013

An Atkins / Walter Jack Studios design has been chosen for a prestigious new memorial which has been commissioned by the Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire to commemorate the Bomber Command aircrew from the UK, The Commonwealth and the rest of the world who lost their lives in World War 2.

Walter Jack Studio and Atkins Global winning design Spire of Names is a memorial and interpretation centre. The Spire of Names is a 50m (165 ft) high conical spire featuring the names of the 25,611 crewmen based in Lincolnshire’s 27 Bomber Command stations who lost their lives during bombing raids. It was chosen ahead of two other proposals following a public vote and a judging round which looked at cost and sustainability credentials among other criteria.

Atkins provided structural engineering and architectural services, having teamed up with structural artist Walter Jack to design the memorial, which is to be built on Canwick Hill, overlooking Lincoln Cathedral.

The internally-lit curved steel plate structure, made from CORTEN steel, is the centrepiece of a site that will also include a visitor’s centre, educational facilities, a café and memorial gardens.

Dominic Pask, design director at Atkins, said: “We’ve designed all sorts of complex structures around the world but it’s not often you have the opportunity to apply these skills to a memorial which carries so much importance. It’s been extremely rewarding working with Walter Jack on the concept for this sustainable and striking structure which will stand as a fitting memorial for generations to come.”

Walter Jack commented: “I am really delighted to be working on this project. I was struck firstly by the sheer numbers who gave their lives as volunteers to Bomber Command - and secondly by the stories of huge bravery and courage. If we can build something halfway worthy of these men we will have done well.”

Spire of Names is the centrepiece of a site that will also include a visitor’s centre, educational facilities, a café and memorial gardens. These facilities will tell the many stories behind the names.

The project is being led by the Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire with support from all sectors of the community including the Bomber Command Association, Local Councils, County Council, Lincolnshire Lancaster Association, Aviation Heritage Lincolnshire, active RAF stations in the county and elsewhere, Lincoln Cathedral and the University of Lincoln. Many other individuals and organisations have also pledged their support.

The formal launch for the Appeal took place on 30th and 31st May 2013 at the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Museum, where the winning design by Walter Jack Studio and Atkins Global was unveiled.

It is planned to have the memorial completed by May 2015 to mark the 70th anniversary of the official ending of hostilities in World War 2.

'The Spire of Names'

'The Spire of Names'