Local people in Ashford are being asked to contribute their views and ideas for a series of public art installations being planned for the new residential development and country park at Conningbrook Lakes in Ashford, Kent.
The community engagement day, to take place on October 6th, aims to seek ideas and creative input from members of the local community to help shape the blue-print for the arts project.
The former quarry site at Conningbrook Lakes is to be transformed by a multi-million-pound development of 300 homes in a lakeside village together with the creation of a country park and water-based leisure facilities.
Latimer, part of the Clarion Housing Group, in partnership with RepComms client, leading Kent-based developers, Chartway Group, owns the 31-acre site and is working in partnership with Ashford Borough Council to deliver the public arts installations across the new housing development and countryside park.
Artist, Kerry Lemon, whose who has worked for clients including The National Trust and the BBC, has been appointed as lead artist. Lemon will help formulate an overall concept and vision for the artworks to help create a unique identity and a cohesive feel for the new lakeside village and country park. Public Arts consultants, FrancisKnight, have been appointed to manage and deliver the project.
Once the blue-print is agreed, a range of artists will be commissioned to create a series of bespoke artworks to reflect the new community and the natural habitats, flora and fauna of the countryside park.
The housing development, which is expected to be one of the most desirable in the region, will offer a range of two, three, four and five bedroom homes, with the first houses coming to market in early 2018.
The housing development is funding the creation of the countryside park, leisure and recreational facilities, which will include a range of water-based sports and other activities as well as a visitor centre, caf? and farm shop.
Emma Powell, Open Space Planning Development Officer at Ashford Borough Council said: “Ashford Borough Council is committed to creating high quality public open spaces and public art plays a key role in achieving this aim. We are excited to be working with FrancisKnight and Kerry Lemon, who both have a proven track record in delivering unique public art of quality and interest.”
Artist, Kerry Lemon said: “Conningbrook Lakes is a beautiful habitat for a diverse range of plants and animals, rich with inspiration for any artist. I look forward to meeting and talking with local residents to explore the potential for public art on the new development and Country Park.”
Kathy Putnam, Head of Planning for Chartway Group said:’ “We are excited about being involved in the public art project that will bring the unexpected and strong sense of identity to the whole development, the residential and recreational elements alike.”
Tim Seward, Director of Sales and Marketing, for Latimer said: “For us, this scheme is not only about delivering high quality and much-needed new homes to the area, it is about building a flourishing community with longevity. We are excited to be part of this project which will play a crucial role in helping us to achieve our aim.”
Events to be held on October 6th at:
2 – 3 p m
Conningbrook Lakes
(meet at lake shelter)
Julie Rose Stadium
Willesborough Rd
Kennington
Ashford
TN24 9QX
3.30-5pm
Julie Rose Stadium
Willesborough Rd
Kennington
Ashford
TN24 9QX
6.00 -8.00
Kennington WI Hall
228 Faversham Road
Kennington
Ashford
Kent
TN24 9AN
