Why was the Baa Baa Black Sheep sculpture rejected?

The East Riding of Yorkshire Council rejected the sculpture due to concerns about highway safety, driver distraction, and the potential for it to be a physical hazard.

What were the local residents' objections to the sculpture?

Locals found the sculpture proposal 'ridiculous' and argued that sheep are irrelevant to Beverley's local farming history, which is more associated with cattle.

What was the developer's response to the rejection?

The developer, Risby Homes, and artist Peter Naylor expressed disappointment, calling the council's health and safety objections 'nonsensical' and highlighting their investment in the project.

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Council Scraps Sheep Sculpture Plans Over Safety Fears

9 Mar

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Summary

Council rejected sheep sculpture citing driver distraction and safety risks.
Locals argued the sheep design was ridiculous and irrelevant to the area.
Developers offered the sculpture as a 'welcome to Beverley' monument.

Council Scraps Sheep Sculpture Plans Over Safety Fears

A proposed illuminated metal 'Baa Baa Black Sheep' sculpture, intended as a 'welcome to Beverley' monument, has been rejected by the East Riding of Yorkshire Council. The council cited 'unacceptable impact on highway safety,' fearing the sculpture would distract drivers and potentially serve as a physical hazard on the Regiment Roundabout. Locals also voiced strong opposition, with one resident describing the proposal as 'ridiculous' and noting that the area is known for arable farming and cattle, not sheep.

Developer Risby Homes, along with artist Peter Naylor, expressed disappointment with the decision. Naylor, who previously created a similar sculpture in Warrington, called the council's objections 'daft spurious objections.' He highlighted that his previous work, 'The Bolt of Lightning,' is in a similar location with higher traffic volumes without issue. Risby Homes director Mark Barrett stated that they had invested significant time and money into the project, intended as a donation to the town, and found the health and safety concerns 'nonsensical.'

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