Completion of Lego Cathedral Model
The final brick has been placed on a Lego model of St Edmundsbury Cathedral, marking the conclusion of a project that spanned ten years.
The replica, located at St Edmundsbury Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, was constructed using approximately 200,000 Lego pieces.
The initiative began on 28 May 2016 and involved the participation of more than 70 volunteers over the course of the build.
The Very Reverend Joe Hawes, Dean of St Edmundsbury, stated: "This model now stands as a testament, not just to craftsmanship, but to what our community can accomplish together."
Project Context and Fundraising
This Lego model is one of four cathedral replicas created from Lego bricks, alongside similar projects at Durham, Exeter, and Chester cathedrals.
The project was designed as a fundraiser, where each £1 donated corresponded to the addition of a new brick to the model.
Sarah Friswell, visitor experience manager for St Edmundsbury Cathedral, reported that the build has raised over £100,000.
She explained, "We got the idea from Durham Cathedral, actually. We were inspired by a company called Bright Bricks.
"They came and computer modelled the cathedral and gave us all the plans and the bricks, and then it was just up to us to encourage visitors to pay £1 and for us to add the bricks."
Challenges and Reflections
Dean Joe Hawes reflected on the journey, noting the unexpected commitment required to complete the model.
He said, "When the LEGO Cathedral build began in May 2016, we could never have imagined the commitment it would take to reach the moment of adding the final brick.
"Within the 10 years of building we faced many challenges, instructions that were hard to read, keeping the volunteer rota full and a global pandemic.
"We hope visitors will continue to enjoy visiting to see the finished product."
Community Engagement
The project’s success highlights the collaborative effort of the local community and the enduring appeal of the cathedral as a cultural landmark.
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