Plans submitted for public art in Catterick Garrison park

Planning permission is being sought for the installation of six artwork totems by contemporary artist Katayoun Dowlatshahi and a piece by steel sculptor Steve Anwar.

Officers from North Yorkshire Council will recommended councillors approve the plans for the town’s Coronation Park when they meet next week.

Inspired by Catterick’s history and natural surroundings, the six totems would be over two metres high and made from corten steel with a ribbon design print waterjet cut into each.

Each totem includes a ceramic collar. The artist would aim to create
an impression into the clay of the totem using leaves in order to achieve an “engaging, tactile element to the work and reflect the hidden flora that can be found in the park”.

The sculpture would be located in the mini plaza at the base of a ramp from Shute Road.

The concept for the structure is to embody the values of Catterick Garrison and its “evolving identity: diverse, dynamic, and deeply rooted”.

The artwork would feature a poem which has been inspired by the artist’s engagement with the local community.

Planning Caroline Walton said in her report to members: “Whilst a subjective issue, officers consider that the proposed artwork would be of a high-quality design and material finish which would contribute in a positive way to the cultural and aesthetic amenity of the area, having involved local community groups as part of the design process.

“The installations would be sited so as to not interfere with the appropriate visibility required by users of the public highway or create any other highway safety or amenity issues for local residents.”

The public art programme is being developed by BEAM, a cultural development organisation working across the North of England.

Planning Permission was granted in March 2024 for the original redevelopment, which includes a new community building, multi-use space, covered external canopy and creation of public square and mini-plaza.

Work is underway on the scheme with the project is expected to be completed by winter 2026.

The application will be debated by the Richmond area planning committee on Thursday next week.