Hull's Beverley Gate sculpture plans rejected after 'granny's vase' jibe

Plans for a large steel sculpture next to Hull's ancient defence walls have been mothballed amid widespread disapproval.

The 33ft (10m) statue, called Shadow Gate, was planned near the historic Beverley Gate remains.

But it was criticised by Chamber of Commerce officials, who said it was like a "granny's vase".

Hull City Council said it had rejected the proposals after listening to opinions during a consultation.

The authority said it had "listened to all of the views put forward, including concerns about its location".

Other critics, external said the sculpture had "all the appeal of an overgrown cheese grater".

The council had commissioned architects Tonkin Liu to design "an engaging piece of art" to be positioned between Whitefriargate and King Edward Street.

The site is near the gate where King Charles I was refused entry to Hull in 1642, sparking the English Civil War.

Project manager Garry Taylor said he respected the planning committee's decision.

"We will continue to work with our other commissioned artists to represent the city's history, character and architecture throughout the wider public realm programme," he said.

"Given the need to ensure that the work in this area is completed on schedule, we are not proposing to bring forward any further proposals for this site."

Beverley Gate was designated a scheduled ancient monument earlier this year.