BRENTWOOD: 'Tree of Welcome' design unveiled

HERE is the first look at part of the £198,200 sculpture that could welcome residents and visitors to Brentwood.

The Brentwood Tree of Welcome – seen here as a prototype – would stand on Brook Street connected to freestanding sculptures of contemporary pilgrims and a mosaic pathway.

The project, which has been revealed to Brentwood council's leisure, sport and culture panel, was originally conceived as a gateway sculpture for the 2012 Olympics but has since been changed because of the decision not to use Weald Park as a mountain biking venue.

However, following great involvement by Holly Trees Primary School in Warley and Brentwood County High School, councillors decided the project would still be worthwhile and so it has been transformed into the Brentwood Welcome Sculpture.

The preliminary designs were created by artists Toin Adams and Celia Gregory after a series of workshops with children from the schools and this tree is based on the drawing of a Brentwood County High student.

The three parts of the public art project would be positioned on the grass verge opposite the Holiday Inn on Brook Street on the approach from the M25/A12 junction.

Should the designs get the go-ahead and funding is secured, the structure could be in place by 2011.

Though councillors were impressed with the plans so far, concerns were raised about the level of funding available from the council, after it was suggested the authority would need to put a 25 per cent – or £50,000 – stake in to attract funding from outside bodies.

It has now been resolved that funding will be sought from a series of bodies, such as the lottery and the Arts Council England, before the council decides how much to put in.

Chairman of the panel Cllr Phil Baker said: "I'm very keen to pursue this – I think it's a great project and I think it would be a fantastic identity for the borough.

"My only concern is the cost and commitment of money, particularly in these difficult times and I would want officers to pursue funding available.

"I don't think it's particularly good at the moment to spend £50,000 in this way when so many families are struggling."

Lib Dem leader Cllr David Kendall agreed funding should be explored and also suggested the plans be shown to the next citizen's panel to get residents' feedback – an idea backed by the other members of the committee.