Starfish trail to go ahead despite planning worries

Organisers of a starfish sculpture trail in Hornsea say they are excited to be going ahead after the local authority said it was unlikely to take any action if the trail did not have planning permission.

The installations across the town had been delayed after the group was told each piece required its own planning approval.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council said progressing without permission "is at the Hornsea Collective's own risk", but added that, based on the information it had been given, it was "unlikely" that any action would be taken.

Sher King, of Hornsea Collective, said: "We're excited to move forward in a way that benefits the town while remaining mindful of the council's guidance."

The council had previously said permission was required because "the size and scale of these sculptures" would "change the appearance" of buildings.

After receiving more information, the authority said the sculptures still needed planning consent, but it recognised it did not enforce the same rules for similar temporary trials.

Hornsea Collective had highlighted previous art trails, such as A Moth for Amy, which it said had not had to jump through planning hoops.

A council spokesperson said: "Where the starfish are located sensibly, including avoiding listed buildings, we are unlikely to find it expedient to take enforcement action should the starfish be erected without planning consent.

"Development without planning permission is at the Hornsea Collective's own risk. The council cannot insist on the submission of an application and enforcement action would only be taken if it is expedient to do so.

"This is unlikely to be taken based on the information provided to date."

King said the aim of the trail was to "create something uplifting for the community, celebrate local creativity and bring more visitors into Hornsea".

She added: "We fully respect the planning process and sought guidance in good faith.

"We will continue to work responsibly, ensuring all starfish are positioned with care, avoiding sensitive locations such as listed buildings and prioritising safety and accessibility."

The first official starfish will be installed on 28 April.

There is already a starfish in place at Number Nine in The Marketplace, where people can also pick up maps for the trail.

In total, 18 starfish sculptures will go up across the town over the next year.

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