War memorials and cemeteries get €6.5m facelift

Flanders and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) have agreed to restore 24 military burial sites in West Flanders.

Minister-president Geert Bourgeois has signed a multi-year agreement with the CWGC to restore some of the most famous First World War memorials in the Westhoek area, including Hospital Farm, Lijssenthoek and Hedge Row Trench cemeteries.

The work will cost €6.5 million, of which just over €3.9 million will go to the CWGC over a period of five years. The agreement was signed with Sir Tim Laurence, deputy chair of the commission.

“This co-operation, and the necessary investment that has been linked to that, proves that over the course of the last years Flanders has developed an important heritage strategy to safeguard war heritage,” Bourgeois said. “This heritage is the last bridge between the present and the past. Reinstate, restore and preserve cemeteries, so that we can keep commemorating the thousands of casualties, long after 2018.”

Work will start this year at Potijze Chateau Ground and Lawn Cemetery and Artillery Wood Cemetery, both in Ypres.

“For a century, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission has cared for the graves, memorials and cemeteries of those who died in both World Wars,” Sir Tim said. “Throughout our history, the cemeteries and memorials have evolved naturally – ageing gracefully but remaining true to their founding design and purpose of ensuring those who died will never be forgotten.

“However, work is now needed to ensure the very high standards expected by visitors to the sites. This generous grant will enable vital conservation work to take place – ensuring our cemeteries remain a fitting tribute to those who died and places to visit and remember for generations to come.”

Photo courtesy CWGC