Decorative arch marks entrance to community garden.
Public art unveiled in Allbrook for local community
A decorative iron arch which marks the entrance to a new community garden area in Allbrook has been unveiled by Allbrook Parish Council.
The arch, designed by Nigel Searle and brought to life by blacksmith Pete Clutterbuck, features an iron damselfly and even a tiny mouse.
The distinctive green archway, highlighting the Allbrook Parish Council colours and located along Allbrook Hill forms the colourful gateway to the community garden which borders part of the Itchen Navigation.
The beauty spot is a haven for wildlife and is being turned into a quiet green space where residents can relax and enjoy the natural world.
Funding to pay for the archway came from developer's contributions for public art, transferred to the Parish Council. Eastleigh Borough Council secured the funds through the Borough's Planning Obligations and supported the Parish Council to find a suitable artist to work with.
Former parish council chairman, Cllr Dave Betts said: “We have just taken over this lovely little area which backs onto the Itchen Navigation.
“We decided it was important that the entrance was very visible and that we needed some sort of archway.”
Iron worker, Pete Clutterbuck, added how much he had enjoyed the job of bringing the archway design to life. “It’s lovely to show the various elements of the design”
Designer of the archway, Nigel Searle, said his design highlighted aspects of the community garden area.
Pictured left to right: Pete Clutterbuck, Dave Betts, Graeme Smith, Lisa Croucher and Nigel Searle.