SCULPTURE could soon grace the banks of the River Orwell in Ipswich.The River Action Group is applying for permission to install the five-metre high abstract artwork on a bend of the river, on land behind a car park in West End Road which is being upgraded for the public to enjoy.
By Tracey Sparling
SCULPTURE could soon grace the banks of the River Orwell in Ipswich.
The River Action Group is applying for permission to install the five-metre high abstract artwork on a bend of the river, on land behind a car park in West End Road which is being upgraded for the public to enjoy.
The sculpture would be cast iron or bronze, with a 'robust industrial character', and be maintained by wildlife and conservation groups.
The two-metre wide sculpture would overlook Ancaster Road and Ranelagh Road.
Artists who sent submissions were shortlisted, and £26,560 was granted by the Regional Arts Lottery Programme towards the £30,000 cost.
The rest could come from unspent money Ipswich Borough Council has earmarked for the Cardinal Park development – a fund which paid for the River Action Group's plan for the area.
Councillors at Wednesday's development Control Committee meeting will hear the Ipswich River Strategy aims to reverse historic development, which has seen industrial firms backing on to the river.
Recent improvements have seen the construction of a cycle way/footpath linking Princes Street to West Road.
It is hoped that John Atkin, the artist who sets out the concept of the work, will also attend the meeting.
Councillors have been recommended to grant permission, and contribute £3,440.
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