A PROTEST will be held this weekend at the site of a historic monument that had to be removed after being hit by HGVs.

The Oakenshaw Cross on Wyke Lane, Oakenshaw, was hit several times by HGVs, including in May 2021, when a woman turned investigator after she followed a truck for a mile.

It was awaiting repairs from that incident when it was smashed by another HGV in February 2022.

It was then removed and since then, major concerns have been raised about its future.

On Saturday, a group of residents passionate about safeguarding the cross for future generations will hold a peaceful protest from 11am.

The Oakenshaw Monument Preservation Group is calling on Kirklees Council to restore the cross and return it to its original position in the heart of the community.

The group said the council has stated that, due to funding pressures, there is no chance of the Grade II-listed cross being restored and returned before 2025/26. 

Kirklees Council said discussions are still ongoing to investigate external funding sources to reinstate the cross. 

Meanwhile, residents would like the concrete blocks to be painted and planters installed to improve the look of the cross’ stump, though Kirklees said planters are not possible for health and safety reasons, something, it says, has been explained to and accepted by the group.

Angela Nicholl said: “As local residents, of course we’re passionate about having the heart of our community restored to its former glory but there’s also a historically significant monument at stake here.

“We’re pleading with Kirklees Council to make this restoration a priority and support with minor improvements while we wait for the cross’ return.”

David Shepherd, strategic director for growth and regeneration at Kirklees Council, told the T&A: “Kirklees Council understands residents’ concerns and passion for Oakenshaw Cross and its historical importance to the local community.

“Discussions are still ongoing with officers, who are working closely with the residents of Oakenshaw to investigate external funding sources to reinstate this monument.

"Officers have recently worked with the local residents group and tidied up the site as best we can, given the site constraints.

“We are unable to support planting on the monument site for health and safety reasons, which have been explained to and accepted by the group's representatives."