Artworks plan recommended for approval

Plans for public artworks to be installed in a North Yorkshire town as part of a multi-million pound redevelopment scheme have been recommended for approval.

Inspired by Catterick Garrison's military and railway heritage, the proposals include positioning six sculptural totems and a circular steel artwork in the town centre.

Work is already under way on the £21m redevelopment project, which will deliver a new civic square for events and a community hub.

North Yorkshire Council is due to consider the planning application on Thursday.

The totems have been designed by artist Katayoun Dowlatshahi, with the circular sculpture created by sculptor Sapien, also known as Steve Anwar.

Standing more than two metres tall (6ft 6in), the six corten‑steel totems would feature a ribbon‑pattern design cut into each piece.

The council said the artist also planned to imprint leaves into the clay moulds to add a "tactile, engaging element" that reflected the hidden flora of the park.

The circular artwork would sit in the mini plaza at the base of the Shute Road ramp and include a poem inspired by the artist's work with the local community, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

In her report to councillors, planning officer Caroline Walton said that although public art can be subjective, officers believed the sculptures represented "high‑quality design and material finish" and would make a positive contribution to the area's cultural and visual character.

She added that the installations would be positioned to avoid obstructing visibility for road users or creating any safety or amenity issues for residents.

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