I don't see the issue with pulling these statues down. Jesus, we're supposed to be advancing as a society. This is just part of society 'growing up'. Becoming more aware and such.
My question, taking a modern slant on things, would people want a Jimmy Saville statue in Leeds City Centre? Saville did a massive amount for charity. Do you bury his sins to venerate his virtue? Of course not. It really is no different.