Trowbridge Town councillors have voted unanimously to support plans to create a Spitfire Monument recognising the town’s role in making the iconic fighter planes that played a decisive role in defending Britain during the Second World War.
The monument is planned to stand at the Bradley Road roundabout close to the Spitfire Retail Park, where the planes’ bodies and wings were built before being conveyed to Keevil Airfield where the aircraft were fully assembled.
The town council’s policy and resources committee voted unanimously on Tuesday, September 3 to approve a motion submitted by Cllr Antonio Piazza to endorse the project.
Dr Simon Selby, Poland’s Honorary Consul for South West England, who represents the Polish community and is spearheading the project, said: “I was really grateful for the town council’s support.
“Part of the reason for choosing Trowbridge is that it has a large Polish community who feel loved and cared for and this project is a recognition of that.”
Dr Selby says the plan is to create a visually striking monument consisting of three reinforced resin replicas of Spitfires.
These will serve as a lasting tribute to the brave individuals who contributed to the war effort and provide an educational resource for future generations.
Polish air crews flew with the Royal Air Force during the war in the RAF’s 302 and 303 Fighter Squadrons during the Battle of Britain and afterwards.
Cllr Piazza's motion said: “The local Polish community recognises the historical significance and the profound impact of Trowbridge's contribution to the production of the iconic Spitfire fighter planes during World War II.
“These aircraft were instrumental in defending our nation, and the local factories played a crucial role in their manufacture.
“The Spitfire Monument Project aims to honour this legacy, commemorate the bravery of the pilots, and create a focal point for historical remembrance and community solidarity.”
Dr Selby says various community stakeholders have collaborated on the project, which has attracted significant civic and international support.
He says the unveiling ceremony – which hopefully will be held in September 2025 - would attract significant media attention and foster long-term networking potential.
The P&R committee resolved to endorse the project and will consider allocating resources towards the cost.
The council will also support work on obtaining planning permission and other approvals, enable community engagement, support the unveiling event, and develop a plan for the monument maintenance.
It is expected that a planning application will next need to be submitted.
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