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27 February 2015Spitfire replica restoration underway
From the office of Yvonne Densem, Christchurch Airport Communications Manager:
"Smith Crane & Construction is one of three partners working on the refurbishment of the Spitfire replica, which we today removed from the Russley Road/Memorial Avenue corner.
"We have been discussing with Christchurch Airport and Air New Zealand the state of disrepair of the Spitfire and nearby Icarus sculpture. Work being done on Russley Road and future building of the related overpass also means the two items will soon become inaccessible to the public.
"The three partners feel a sincere need to remove, renovate and reinstate the Spitfire and Icarus Wall out of respect, so approached the Brevet Club with a proposal to refurbish the two items, then reposition them in a place where members of the public can access them easily and safely.
"The Brevet Club welcomed the proposal and the first part of the project began today, with the careful removal of the Spitfire from its plinth.
"The replica is now being stored in an Air New Zealand hangar where the refurbishment process will begin.
"The Spitfire replica and the Memorial Wall were gifted to the people of Christchurch on the occasion of the Battle of Britain Commemorative Service 19th September 1999 and we look forward to replacing them in their new position in Spitfire Square, on Memorial Avenue, around September this year."
FOOTNOTE: The Spitfire's transport/hanger support frame was designed and built by the Smith Crane & Construction fabrication and engineering workshop. Do you have a similar type job requirement?
Contact us here.
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