BCP council have approved plans for a new nautical rope sculpture to be built on Hunger Hill in Poole.
The sculpture, which will be illuminated with LED lights, is designed to celebrate Poole’s maritime history.
Designed by the artist Michael Condron, the new public artwork will be based on the form of a rope knot made from stainless steel. At dusk, a subtle effect will be created by the sculpture, with light only creeping through gaps in multiple overlapping metal segments.
The final designs for the sculpture have followed extensive consultation and engagement activities with local community groups, schools and colleges.
Alongside the newly approved piece, a second series of sculptures designed by the same artist will be installed at Barbers Piles, near Poole Bridge. This artwork will feature six stainless steel birds in flight, representing the wildlife of Poole Harbour and local metalworking heritage through the ages.
A spokesperson from BCP Council said: “We’re pleased with the decision to approve the new sculpture. Situated on the threshold of the Port of Poole and Town Centre, the public artwork will help to create a sense of place and encourage civic pride in the local community.
“An attractive and instantly recognisable ‘gateway’ piece, it will also greet visitors travelling from the Holes Bay direction over Towngate bridge and provide a memorable visual spectacle for people leaving the town.’’
The artwork is being delivered as part of the final phase of the Townside and Hunger Hill improvements scheme and will be installed in 2020.
Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership has secured £9.6m funding for the Townside and Hunger Hill improvements scheme, through the government’s Local Growth Fund.