Students submit designs for pedestrian entrance
A PLANNING application has been put forward for the installation of an archway over an entrance to a major college in Leek.
In 2013 planning permission was granted to the University of Derby for extensive works, including demolition and rebuilding to create a higher education campus within the site of the original Art College.
This project included the provision of a new pedestrian access into the Buxton and Leek College site from Stockwell Street.
In the event, a modest treatment was carried out, including the retention of the original brick pillars and part of the boundary wall.
Steel bollards were placed to limit vehicle access. Discussions continued at that time about an archway feature over the new entrance, but no detailed scheme was agreed.
The district council now has access to funds and wishes to complete the original vision by the installation of an archway that will “highlight the entrance and reflect the purposes of the University”, according to the design and access statement submitted to Staffordshire Moorlands District Council. It added: “The College of Art and Design is a fundamental element in the history of Leek and is intrinsically tied to its creativity and industrial heritage.”
The project has been co-ordinated by Anne-lise Fraser, head of art and design at the college and Denis O’connor, director of sculpture works.
The latter is a well established sculptor and designer, based in Derbyshire but actively working on projects throughout the UK and Ireland.
His commission was to work with the
Director of the Art College, to involve all parties in this process, and to then build and install the selected design.
The project has initially involved 20 art and design students from the college who produced a series of visual ideas for the proposed gateway artwork.
These ideas were presented to Joanne Brooks, regeneration officer, and Pranali Parikh, head of regeneration, and other staff in planning and conservation departments of High Peak Borough Council and Staffordshire Moorlands District Council.
Four designs from the initial submissions were shortlisted and presented to the leader of the council, Councillor Sybil Ralphs MBE. One was selected and agreed to be the final design for the new gateway.
The proposed archway will be a prominent feature in the street scene, but allows the pillars on either side of the entrance to still define the opening.
“It will be a significant element of public art in the town and reflect the purposes and history of the college,” added the statement.
A decision is expected by planners within the next six weeks.