Crawley sculpture in memory of those lost to Covid-19 will also ‘stand as a symbol of hope and optimism’

A new piece of public artwork in Crawley is planned in memory of people who have died as a result of Covid-19.

The Terrace Pocket Park, at the junction of Manor Royal with London Road, is within the Manor Royal Business District and was completed back in 2017.

It is part of a project to create a connected trail of micropark areas to provide improved facilities and open space to people working in the area.

The Manor Royal BID is planning to install a piece of public art at the front of the Terrace Pocket Park site in place of a tree that has failed.

The intention is for the sculpture, made by local blacksmith, to be place specific rather than business specific, which is felt to be more appropriate for a public area designed for the enjoyment of members of the public and people from multiple businesses.

A planning application has been submitted to Crawley Borough Council.

The sculpture will be an open and column-like ironwork structure approximately 3.7m high depicting lively birds emerging into light and swirling around a golden sphere representing positivity and the sun.

Steve Sawyer, executive director at Manor Royal BID, said: “Manor Royal is a place steeped in history and stories. This sculpture – made by a local blacksmith – is inspired by the challenging times we have faced but is so much more than a memorial of what we have lost. It will also stand as a symbol of hope and optimism, while serving to enhance an important public space for the people and visitors to Manor Royal to enjoy.”