Calls for probe after landmark sculpture removed
The 10ft X 10ft bronze sculpture of dray horses pulling a cart of kegs was removed from the wall of an apartment block in Blackpool early on Sunday.
The sculpture, installed on the northern gable wall between the Watercourse road and Blackpool bypass, was clearly visible from one of the main roads leading into the city from the north.
However, workmen in cherrypickers took it down on Sunday.
The apartments were built about eight years ago on a site which once formed part of the old Cork Distillery complex. The sculpture was commissioned by the developer and installed on the wall with the agreement of Cork City Council to commemorate the heritage and history of the area.
However, earlier this year, a liquidator was appointed to the company which developed the apartments.
Fears were raised last night that the sculpture may have been removed as part of the liquidation process.
Art experts estimate the metal used in the piece could be worth €50,000.
“If this is what happened, it should be returned,” said Labour Cllr Catherine Clancy. “This sculpture was put up as an asset to the community and it should remain as such.”
Local residents alerted her to the removal at about 8am on Sunday.
She contacted gardaí who said the removal was legal.
She also confirmed with City Hall that the sculpture was not a public artwork.
A spokesman for the council’s planning department said it was not a planning matter as there was no condition relating to the sculpture when permission was granted. The matter has been referred to the roads department and the city’s arts officer because it may relate to the art scheme in conjunction with the Blackpool bypass, he said.
Ms Clancy said: “This was seen as a public piece to mark the history and heritage of the site.
“It was site-specific and would have little or no value anywhere else.
“It would be a shame if this was simply sold off to settle debts.”
