Weston-super-Mare’s infamous public artwork, known as Silica or colloquially as the Carrot, will undergo a transformation. The sculpture, located at Big Lamp Corner in the town center since 2006, was originally intended to symbolize a drop of liquid about to hit the pavement. However, its ground floor space has been unused, serving as a disused bus shelter.
A new £40,000 project aims to revamp the sculpture by thoroughly cleaning it and enclosing the bus shelter. The renovated space will feature display screens providing the latest information on events, community projects, and local businesses around town. North Somerset Council is funding the six-week project, with Weston-super-Mare Town Council expected to lease the ground floor for its Visit Weston service upon completion. The upper level of the artwork will continue to be maintained by North Somerset Council with its distinctive multicolored lighting.
Cllr Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council’s executive member for placemaking and economy, expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration’s outcome. He emphasized the potential of the revamped Silica as a valuable resource for residents and visitors, as well as the positive reception from local businesses.
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In 2022, the council had previously allocated £95,000 to install color-changing lights on the sculpture, replacing 250 single-color bulbs.