Institute of Directors Celebrates Approval of Lady Rhondda Statue in Newport
IoD Wales is delighted to express our pleasure at the confirmation by Council Planners Women that a statue commemorating Lady Rhondda will be erected in Newport. This significant monument will honour a pioneering figure in the fight for women’s rights and a trailblazer in business and politics.
Lady Rhondda, born Margaret Haig Thomas, was a prominent Welsh suffragette, businesswoman, and the founder of the feminist journal Time and Tide. She made history as the first female president of the Institute of Directors (IoD), demonstrating her relentless dedication to advocating for women’s suffrage and equality. Her legacy has left an indelible mark on British history, and the approval of this statue is a testament to her enduring influence and the respect she commands to this day.
Lady Rhondda’s statue has won the support of those living near the proposed site, with a dozen letters of support – and no objections.
One respondent said it was “about time that Newport had a statue of a woman in the city”. “It’s great that she’s finally getting the recognition that she deserves,” they added.
Another supporter said the statue “shines a strong light on the role of women, and in particular a famous leader of women and the suffragette movement who lived in Newport for most of her active life”.
Council officers gave the green light for the bronze 8ft (2.43m) statue to be placed on the eastern side of the Millennium Footbridge in Newport city centre.
It is being sculpted by artist Jane Robbins, will be the fourth in a series of five statues celebrating inspirational Welsh women.
The project is a collaborative effort involving Monumental Welsh Women, and this will be the fourth of five statues that they have campaigned for.
For more information about the Lady Rhondda statue project, please contact Monumental Welsh Women – Monumental Welsh Women – Statues, Hidden Heroines