Councillors raise concerns over new artwork (From Bicester Advertiser)

Councillors raise concerns over new artwork

3:10pm Saturday 22nd September 2012 in News

A NEW piece of art could adorn the gates of a Bicester park but town councillors want the final say over its design.

Proposals have been put forward by Cherwell District Council to design and make a “unique artwork” that will enhance the entrance to Garth Park.

It would be paid for from developer funding, relating to developments in Launton Road, including supermarkets Aldi and Lidl.

Artists have been sent a brief asking for them to come up with designs of metalwork for gates, railings and entrance features to enhance the “sense of arrival” at the park.

Each artist would be paid £500 to prepare designs and there would be a budget of £17,000 for the main work. The deadline for submissions is October 22.

Work is expected to start in February or March, with the piece unveiled in June next year.

But at a Bicester Town meeting councillors raised concerns they would not be able to make a final decision on the artwork, that would effectively be installed on town council property.

Dan Sames said: “I would be reticent giving permission for public art to be installed before I know what it is. All we know is metal work, but I quite like our gates.”

He was also concerned artwork could distract drivers, and said he would prefer to see a piece of art to mark the Queen’s Jubilee.

Cherwell District Council spokesman Craig Forsyth said: “The aim is to enhance the park entrances but no walls or railings will be removed in the process.

“Cherwell is working with the town council, local traders, Sainsburys, Bicester Avenue and Bicester Village to devise ways of increasing footfall in the town.”

The winning design will be selected by a panel of local judges.