A former Fife councillor has made a renewed call for a statue of Saint Andrew to be given a more prominent location.
The landmark which is owned by St Andrews University, is tucked away in the car park of the town’s Botanic Garden. It is a copy of the sculpture by Francois Duquesnoy, which has pride of place in St Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
Bill Sangster said: “This statue has been hidden away at the Botanic Gardens car park now for far too long.
“There has been much said in the press of late about finding somewhere in our city to have it on display for all to see and to add to our fantastic collection of historical photographic and interesting subjects.
“Because it would put the public at risk if it were in the middle of the roundabout, my suggestion would be to have it situated within the trees and flowerbeds at the roundabout at the entrance.
“I am sure that it could have an array of solar powered uplighters for the dark hours, to give it a really great view and to ward off any vandalism. I am sure that local funding can be raised to carry out the move and to have it cleaned also.”
However, any work on such a monument would be a major project.
St Andrews Botanic Garden director James Hearsum said: “As holders of scientific and historic collections, we have a particular insight into the conservation issues of objects of historical and cultural importance.
“We believe there is a process of conservation assessment necessary in order to ascertain both the significance and conservation needs of the statue.”
He added: “St Andrews Botanic Garden is undergoing a wonderful resurgence, with visitation up more than 80% this summer compared with last. This is only the beginning of a transformation that we believe will establish the Botanic Garden as a significant cultural destination in St Andrews.
“As a result of this, we are confident that an appropriate relocation within the Botanic Garden will not only give the statue proper prominence, but will also aid in securing the renewal and enhancement of an area of the Botanic Garden for the community.
“On completion of the preliminary conservation assessments needed, we would be delighted to discuss this, along with other proposals, to ensure that the piece is carefully preserved for the future and receives appropriate prominence and care.”