CONTROVERSIAL work on Crewe's war memorial has been shelved this week ahead of a referendum.

The monument has been removed from its historical home in plans to install it in the newly redeveloped Municipal Square.

But work was suspended this week as the new Tory-led council prepared for a referendum on the issue, answering protests from campaigners.

The decision was met with derision from opposition Labour councillors who insisted it could cost taxpayers a further £100,000.

Labour leader Steve Hogben accused the Tories of 'playing a dangerous game' in spite of 'huge legal and financial consequences'.

He said a report revealed that the recent decision to send the stone plinth away from the site has cost around £5,000 and if it is eventually brought back it will cost a further £35,000 - £40,000.

But should it be returned to Market Square, he said, it will cost between £100,000 and £105,000.

He suggested that the contractors may also claim damages, increasing costs even further.

Cllr Hogben said: "Unless we stop them, this latest example of Tory rashness will result in higher council tax or cuts in front-line services."

Council leader Brian Silvester insisted that any costs involved would be met within existing budgets for the two squares.

He added: "Work will continue on the square until it is finished and we support this. But any work in relation to the war memorial has been stopped because to continue would pre-judge the result of the referendum.

"Should people decide to put the memorial back it would not impact on the plans for the town centre development at all."