Concern over public art's move from Queens Square

Plans to move a piece of public art from Queens Square have been approved, despite concerns from one borough councillor.
Martlets Tree in Queens Square (photo submitted). SUS-160402-122650001Martlets Tree in Queens Square (photo submitted). SUS-160402-122650001
Martlets Tree in Queens Square (photo submitted). SUS-160402-122650001

Crawley Borough Council’s Development Control Committee agreed to move the Martlets Tree to a spot outside Crawley Library last Monday, prior to major redevelopment of Queens Square.

But Brenda Burgess (Con, Three Bridges), who has previously spoken against the bandstand’s move to the Memorial Gardens, asked if the piece of art’s name would be changed to the ‘library tree’ and if the birds would be replaced with books.

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She said: “Did we consult the public or did we just take the decision to move it?”

Francis Guidera (Con, Tilgate) asked if they could invite the original artist if they had a rededication.

The commemorative plaque says the tree was designed by Peter Parkinson and made by Richard Quinnell, with support from Scottish Widows and a grant from South-East Arts.

It explains that the work is a celebration of the origin of the street name The Martlets. The heraldic bird is featured on a number of West Sussex coats of arms.

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