Specialist artist Tracey Cartledge will begin restoring the three mosaics in St Annes Square this autumn, with work starting on Monday, September 7. The restoration, approved by Fylde Council, will first focus on the St Annes Arts Arena Mosaic in the amphitheatre, followed by the two Mermaid Mosaics on the southern side of the Square.
Restoration timeline and artist approval
The Arts Arena piece, created by artist Gary Drostle in 2005, will be the first to receive attention. The Mermaid Mosaics, commissioned by Fylde Council in 2003 as part of a town centre redevelopment and created by artist Stephen Charnock, will follow. Each phase is expected to take up to two weeks, depending on weather conditions.
Tracey Cartledge brings over 10 years of experience restoring historic mosaics, alongside a 30-year career in public art. She has secured approval from both original artists to ensure their vision is preserved for future generations.
Minimal disruption to public access
Small areas of fencing will be placed around each site during the work, but residents and visitors can expect no disruption to access across the Square. The schedule has been arranged so the popular St Annes Artisan Market can proceed undisturbed on Saturday, September 12.
Councillor Karen Buckley, leader of Fylde Council, said: “The mosaics have become a familiar feature in St Annes Square, adding colour and interest to the space. Restoring them now ensures they play their part in the wider regeneration work, complementing the major improvements already underway and supporting our long-term plan to create a more vibrant, attractive and resilient town centre for the future.”
Part of wider regeneration investment
The restoration forms part of the council's ongoing commitment to protecting public art, following a £3.13m investment in St Annes Square last year. The project aims to enhance the town centre's appeal and resilience, aligning with broader regeneration efforts in the area.
