A £55,000 arts and economic development project to create a walking sculpture trail around the picturesque streets and alleyways of Whitby has begun.
Scarborough Borough Council’s Walking with Heritage project will see seven life size sculptures depicting Whitby’s fishing heritage, created by local sculpture artist, Emma Stothard, installed throughout the west side of town by early spring next year.
The first sculpture in the trail, which depicts a fisherman’s wife and baskets full of fish has been installed on the west side of the swing bridge. It was officially unveiled by local fisherman, William Hall and Mayor of Whitby, Cllr Linda Wild.
Once finished, the trail will take people from Whitby Swing Bridge, up Golden Lion Bank and Flowergate, along Skinner Street and down Kyber Pass to finish at the band stand at the end of Pier Road.
The aim of the trail is to lead people to explore some of the lesser frequented areas of Whitby and support local businesses in those areas. It will be promoted as a family friendly activity for visitors and residents to enjoy.
An app is being developed to accompany the trail, which will feature a map and information relating to each sculpture, including old photos and audio clips from retired fishermen.
The project is being funded by the government’s Coastal Revival Fund with a contribution from the council.
Matthew Joseph, Scarborough Borough Council Community Regeneration Manager, said:
“We’re delighted that the first of the project’s sculptures is now in place and we look forward to seeing the others take up their positions in the coming months.
“Visually, the project is centred on arts and heritage, but there is also a very important economic development aspect that sits behind it. When the trail is complete, not only will it tell people more about Whitby’s rich history through sculpture, it will help to transfer footfall to the less visited parts of the town giving people the opportunity to explore the many high quality businesses in those areas.”
The council is working on developing plans for a second phase of the project to encompass the quieter parts of the east side of Whitby.
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