Brentwood’s history on display as the Mayor unveils new lecterns

Warley Councillor Jay Laplain unveils new lecterns at Brentwood Town Hall

Six new heritage lecterns have been installed this month outside Brentwood Town Hall, following government funding secured by your Liberal Democrat-led Joint Administration.

Following calls from your hard-working Liberal Democrat councillors, led by Councillor Ben Rigby, funds have been allocated to replace the previous lecterns, which were damaged, worn, and outdated.

The old lecterns were installed outside the Town Hall in 2009 as part of a larger heritage scheme to commemorate the borough’s residents who have made significant contributions to the political, scientific, artistic, literary, and sporting heritage. 

The lectern scheme was designed to strengthen a sense of local and national identity, promoting Brentwood's people, buildings and sites which have historical significance. The project was initially commissioned by the then Town Centre Partnership (now the Business Improvement District), which collaborated closely with Brentwood Museum and local historian John Fryer to depict critical historical moments in Brentwood's history from 1100 to 2008.  

The new heritage lecterns form part of a programme aligned with Brentwood’s new five-year cultural and creative strategy for the Borough, which highlights the importance of celebrating Brentwood’s cultural heritage and creativity.

Each lectern retains much of the original information and illustrations by John Fryer, while incorporating significant events from 2009–2025, including the 2012 Olympic Torch Relay in Brentwood and local celebrations of the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III.

To enhance accessibility and engagement, every lectern now features a brass rubbing plaque, providing a tactile experience for visitors and a fun activity for children. Free brass rubbing sheets and crayons will be available from the Town Hall reception.

Councillor Vicky Davies, who is the vice-chair of the Committee responsible for communities, said: “I’m delighted that we have offered our residents, especially schoolchildren, new opportunities to connect with Brentwood’s rich heritage. The original lecterns were well-liked by those passing by and by visitors to the Town Hall, including other civic dignitaries, with many stopping to read and enjoy the information about our Borough’s cultural richness.

She added: “We hope the new lecterns will rekindle pride in our community and highlight Brentwood’s unique character and history, from the town centre to our lovely countryside.”