Kiddey Stones installation gets the green light

Councillor Rowan Cozens, Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and the Arts at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “I am delighted that the Kiddey Stones will be installed in Newark and, after many years of being out of sight, finally become accessible for people to see and enjoy. Reflecting the working lives of miners and electric plant operators, the Kiddey Stones will provide a visible and prominent reminder of our heritage and are an important piece of a larger jigsaw to enhance the arts and cultural offer of Newark and the wider District, without having to visit a gallery and pay for the privilege of doing so. 

“By displaying works like this, we are not only honouring our district’s heritage but hopefully encouraging and inspiring local artists of the future to pick up a pencil, brush or chisel.” 

Councillor Paul Peacock, Leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “There has been a lot of interest in the proposed installation of the Kiddey Stones and understandably, people have different views and it’s only right they should have the opportunity to comment, challenge and ask questions. Investment in the arts, heritage and culture is something that nationally, regionally and locally tends to feature down the list of priorities but in a District like Newark and Sherwood, it’s really important. Contrary to some of the misleading information that has been peddled by those wishing to turn this into a political argument, Council Tax is not being raised to fund the installation of the Kiddey Stones. The money is coming from reserves already held by the Council."

Councillor Cozens concludes, “Taking some time out of your day to enjoy something beautiful is incredibly important and that should never be underestimated. In my opinion it is impossible to place a value on that and I hope that many people will enjoy the wellbeing benefits of these beautifully impressive sculptures without having to travel outside of the district.

“Over the last 40 years, Newark Town Council has tried to find suitable locations for these sculptures on more than ten separate occasions, but each time was unsuccessful in finding somewhere appropriate.  Choosing a suitable location for them, therefore, we know is a challenge, but we believe these sculptures have now found a permanent place to settle at last.

“I have seen a lot of discussion around the Kiddey Stones on social media and I am aware that there are mixed feelings about this project. However, I have spoken to many residents, and I firmly believe there is a need and desire, from a good proportion of our residents, to see the installation progress. It is impossible to please everyone, but I hope those residents who asked to see the installation progress are happy with that decision.  But beyond that, I do hope many more residents, and visitors, will also enjoy the sculptures when installed and that in the near future, these become the beginning of a wonderful new art trail in Newark.  Ultimately our goal with this project is to increase footfall to Newark, especially via train, while supporting residents and visitors’ mental health, and support and improving our local economy.”

Work to install the Kiddey Stones outside of Castle House on the Great North Road is set to begin in Spring 2025.