News Article

A sculpture inspired by the rolling tides of the North Sea and Northumberland’s open spaces has been unveiled to signal the opening of a major new business park.

“Far and Beyond” has been created by artist Joanna Mowbray and sits proudly at the entrance to Ashwood Business Park, in Northumberland.

The artwork, which cost £35,000, also forms part of the Inspire project, which aims to make a significant contribution to the renaissance of South East Northumberland by improving the quality of the built and natural environments through public art and quality design.

Ashwood, situated at North Seaton near Ashington, has been created by regional development agency One North East and will help create over 1,000 jobs.

The Agency used European funding to develop the £5m Business Park project, which has also delivered a community park on the outskirts of the site.

Joanna said: “The sculpture is a response to the site, the surrounding open spaces and the proximity of the North Sea.

“The shape and positioning of the piece is representative of the movement of the sea and the boats.”

Ashwood has already attracted a number of potential developers and One North East is confident development work on new commercial premises will begin in the summer.

One North East Director of Regeneration and Tourism, John Holmes, said: “Ashwood has the potential to create over 1,000 jobs and will play a key role in the continued regeneration of South East Northumberland.

“The sculpture is a fantastic way to unveil Ashwood to the region. It makes a striking and exciting addition to the surrounding environment.”

For more information please contact: Bryn Littleton, press office, One North East on Tel: (0191) 2296713, mobile no: 07717 468918.   
e-mail : bryn.littleton@onenortheast.co.uk