Sculpture and footbridge plans for Castledawson roundabout

A proposal to erect a sculpture and construct a footbridge at Castledawson roundabout in Co Derry is to be considered by Mid Ulster Council next week. The Transport NI project, which is in its early stages of development, would see walkways installed across both carriageways of the roundabout, with a ‘Gateway’ art piece as a centrepiece in the middle of the roundabout. In July it was revealed that the council had set aside £30,000 for public art projects in Magherafelt as part of The Mid Ulster Town Centre Action Plan. The council is working with Transport NI on the A6 Pedestrian Bridge project and members of the its Development Committee approved a £15,000 contribution to the installation of the sculpture that is to be ratified at this Thursday’s full Council meeting. The sculpture that will be placed at the centre of the roundabout is one of two that were originally commissioned by Magherafelt District Council, which ‘reflect the history of Magherafelt town and surrounding areas’. The second Gateway sculpture is to be unveiled in Magherafelt’s Market Square ‘in a few short weeks’. The redesigned square is to feature three striking new lighting columns – representing the three church spires of Magherafelt – and the artwork entitled ‘Our Story’ will be placed on a newly designed roundabout in the square. The sculpture was created by renowned Derry artist Maurice Harron, famous for work like ‘Reconcilition/Hands Across the Divide’ in Derry city and ‘Let the Dance Begin’ near Strabane. ‘Our Story’ features individual panels depicting aspects of life important to the community, from family and children to history, work, music and dance. Above is an artist’s impression of how the new art feature and footbridges would look on Castledawson roundabout.