Perryfields Road: Plan for public art in Bromsgrove approved

The proposal, which was submitted to Bromsgrove District Council, will see the public exhibition entitled 'stair of nails' constructed at the Perryfields Road development site. 

In the design, which pays homage to the town's links to the nail-making industry, the artists envision a sculpture consisting of 10 metal 'nails'.

The smallest will be positioned on the most outer point and will increase in height towards the centre of the spiral. 

The design and access statement said: "By creating a stair of nails, the artist interprets this as representing the growth of Bromsgrove over the years and reflecting on the industrial history of the area." 

The proposals confirms that the tallest nail will not exceed 2500mm and that it is a "high-quality, well thought out design". 

The proposed location for the public art is within the public open space located to the southwest of the residential development site. 

The plans have raised some concerns amongst residents including encouraging vandalism and anti-social behaviour as well as homes being overlooked. 

Others have supported the plans but would have liked to see the sculpture built in a different location on the development. 

Design of the sculpture on the planning portal (Image: Living Space Housing/Planning Portal) Resident Mike Astley said: "I see no purpose to this at all. It will no doubt be liable to vandalism.

"There is plenty of room further on into the site where the sculpture would be in view of more residents of the development and would therefore be more protected."

Another resident Sam Strangward added: "Our main concern and objection to this application is the proposed location of the artwork.

"We would welcome the applicant reconsidering the proposed location, either moving within the development or to the NE of the SUD, where more people are likely to enjoy this artwork." 

The application was approved on Friday (October 4) with Head of Planning, Regeneration and Leisure Services Ruth Bamford saying the project will help create a "strong sense of place and identity". 

In the decision notice, she said: "The proposed development is considered to align with Policy BDP20.2 of the Bromsgrove Development Plan by honouring the area's rich nail-making heritage.

"Integrating public art that celebrates this history into the residential site will create a strong sense of place and identity, reflecting the town's past and enhancing its character."