Construction Underway for Monument of Hope
Groundbreaking ceremonies commenced in early November 2025 for the 'Eternal Wall of Answered Prayer,' a significant Christian monument located in Coleshill, England. This ambitious project, envisioned to stand 168 feet (51 meters) tall, is set to become a prominent landmark visible from the M6 and M42 motorways, as well as the flight path to Birmingham Airport. The monument, with an estimated cost of £45 million, is projected to open to the public in 2028.
The project's founder, Richard Gamble, a former Leicester City Football Club chaplain, conceived the idea in 2004. He described the groundbreaking as the culmination of 21 years of prayer and effort, stating, 'This is a day I have prayed for, dreamed of and worked towards for 21 years'.
Design and Purpose: A Million Stories of Faith
The 'Eternal Wall of Answered Prayer' features a distinctive design by Snug Architects, chosen through a Royal Institute of British Architects competition in 2016. The structure is an infinity loop, also known as a Möbius strip, symbolizing the eternal nature of God and prayer.
A core element of the monument is its construction from one million white bricks, each intended to represent a story of answered prayer. Visitors will be able to use a dedicated mobile application to scan individual bricks and access these personal testimonies, which can be in audio, video, or written format. The monument aims to preserve the Christian heritage of the nation, encourage prayer, and proclaim Jesus.
Funding and Development Journey
The £45 million project has been largely funded through public donations and significant contributions from benefactors. Notably, the land for the monument was donated by Lord Robert Edmiston's IM Group, which also provided substantial financial support. The project gained traction in 2016 with a crowdfunding campaign that raised £47,000 for the design competition.
After receiving planning permission from the North Warwickshire Borough Council in 2020 and subsequent government approval, the project faced delays due to rising costs, inflation, and design complexities. Despite these challenges, the charity behind the initiative successfully reached its initial fundraising targets, allowing construction to commence.
Anticipated Impact and Future Facilities
Upon its completion in 2028, the 'Eternal Wall of Answered Prayer' is expected to attract approximately 200,000 to 250,000 visitors annually. The monument's prominent location means an estimated 500,000 journeys per week will pass by it.
Beyond the main structure, the site will include a visitor centre, café, bookstore, and a 24-hour on-site chaplaincy service, creating around 20 full-time jobs. The project aims to inspire individuals of all faiths and none, offering a 'place of hope' and encouraging conversations about prayer. Organizers are continuing to collect prayer stories, with a goal of 250,000 submissions by the opening day.
5 Comments
Raphael
The design is certainly unique and visually striking, and the concept of sharing personal stories is touching. Yet, the sheer cost and the overtly religious nature might deter some who could otherwise benefit from a message of hope.
Leonardo
This monument clearly represents a significant achievement for its founders and will undoubtedly inspire many Christians. Still, I question if such a large sum could have been more broadly impactful in addressing social issues, even within the faith community.
Raphael
Finally, a monument to hope and answered prayers! This will be a beacon for many.
Michelangelo
A massive waste of resources and prime land. Completely unnecessary.
Raphael
Just what we need, more religious proselytizing dominating the landscape.