Sculpture set for move to make space for events

A sculpture in Beeston town centre could soon be moved to allow more space for market events.

The 35-year-old white marble structure, depicting a tree trunk, was designed by artist Paul Mason and is currently positioned in Beeston Square.

A planning application was submitted to Broxtowe Borough Council to relocate the sculpture outside the Arc Cinema, just north of the Beeston Square tram stop.

The council's planning committee has been recommended by officers to approve the relocation and a decision is set to be made on Wednesday.

As it is responsible for the statue, the council is effectively applying to its own planning committee to move it, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

The main reason for moving the 9ft 2in (2.79m) art piece would be to allow more space for future market stalls and events within Beeston Square, reflecting a growing need.

It currently sits on a stone base which would be demolished to create more space in the square.

The sculpture would be moved to a planter outside the cinema.

Planning documents to be assessed by the committee said: “Whilst acknowledging that the sculpture will be removed from its original location within a prominent town centre space, its new location will mean it can still be appreciated within the public realm whilst freeing up valuable space within Beeston Square for markets and other activities.”

It is not planned to be used as a water feature at its proposed new location, the documents add.

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