Coldstones sculpture nears completion

Work on a new sculpture aimed at linking Hanson’s Coldstones Quarry in North Yorkshire with the neighbouring Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) of Nidderdale is nearing completion. Coldstones Cut, designed by Andrew Sabine, will be officially opened by the director of Tate Britain, Dr Penelope Curtis on 16 Septmeber 2010.

According to Sabine, the sculpture is designed in the shape of a spectacular cut through the land and seeks to inspire, challenge and interpret local themes and traditions through a streetscape between the two environments of the rural uplands and the industrial quarry.

Visitors will be able to walk through the sculpture and explore the different vistas – from the stunning scenery of the Nidderdale AONB to major landmarks of North Yorkshire. A special viewing platform will also allow the opportunity to see the day to day workings of the limestone quarry.

The cost of the sculpture is approximately £500,000, which has been raised through contributions from a variety of bodies. Grants were  provided  by  Natural England (through DEFRA’s Aggregate Levy Sustainability Fund), the Arts Council, England (Yorkshire), The European Union’s LEADER Programme (Yorkshire Dales) and Yorkshire Forward. The Regional Development Agency. Hanson Aggregates has been a major contributor in terms of materials and time.