Huge sculpture to be removed from visitor attraction due to safety concerns - but it could take ten years
An unusual three-storey cake sculpture has become a talking point but it is now facing removal due to safety concerns – although it may take a decade to take down.
A giant three-storey sculpture designed to look like a wedding cake is set to be dismantled at a historic country estate due to safety concerns, but it could take a decade to be taken down.
The 12-metre artwork, created by Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos, was unveiled as a visitor attraction at Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire in 2023.
Inspired by Lisbon's traditional ceramic craftsmanship, the unusual structure was designed to resemble an enormous wedding cake, complete with decorative tiles and ornaments. Its exterior is covered in 14cm square tiles produced by Viúva Lamego, a Portuguese manufacturer with a history spanning more than 170 years.
However, the Rothschild Foundation, which has owned, managed and lived at the estate since 1874, is now seeking to have the artwork removed as soon as possible. Planning documents reveal that defects affecting the tiles and decorative features have created potential health and safety risks for visitors.
A report by a council officer stated that no workable solution to the problems had been identified, meaning the sculpture will eventually have to be taken apart.
The current deadline for its removal is January 18 2036, although the Foundation has indicated it would prefer the work to happen sooner.
In February 2026, Buckinghamshire Council approved an amendment to the existing listed building consent, allowing the sculpture to be removed earlier than had originally been permitted.
The artwork is positioned beside the Grade II-listed Dairy, within Waddesdon's Grade I-listed historic park and garden, as well as the village conservation area.
Despite its unusual appearance, the Wedding Cake had become an attraction for visitors, who could book a 45-minute guided tour for £15. The structure could even be privately hired for events at a cost of around £5,000.
The council's heritage officer said the revised plans would help protect the historic surroundings. The Gardens Trust declined to comment, while the archaeology department raised no objections to the proposals. No public representations were received during the planning process.
Although the council has approved the changes, its decision notice does not specify when dismantling work will actually begin. The January 18, 2036 deadline therefore remains in place, despite the Foundation's earlier indication that it wanted the sculpture removed sooner.
A spokesperson for Waddesdon Manor said: "Unfortunately, we haven’t been able to have the Wedding Cake open for quite as long as we hoped and planning permission was always temporary. However, inspired by the appeal and joy that the Wedding Cake gave to visitors, we are hoping to continue to showcase art in the landscape.
"We have just announced the programme for our 150th anniversary year, including plans for a new contemporary sculpture trail in the grounds of Waddesdon Manor, which will open in July 2027."