A striking and deeply symbolic design for a new public sculpture has been revealed, promising to create a powerful sense of arrival at the western gateway to the Dearne Valley.
Artist Dan Jones’ vision, incorporating elements inspired directly by local residents, is set to become a prominent landmark on the newly constructed roundabout leading into Goldthorpe.
The ambitious five-meter tall artwork, commissioned as part of the Goldthorpe Town Deal, features three laser-cut steel panels interconnected by a steel ring. Each panel uniquely represents the distinct identities of the Dearne’s three settlements: Goldthorpe, Bolton upon Dearne, and Thurnscoe.
Jones’ design is the culmination of extensive community consultation, involving over 200 people of all ages through 15 creative workshops and an online survey. This collaborative approach has ensured the sculpture truly reflects the heritage, culture, and landscape cherished by the Dearne’s inhabitants.
Intriguingly, the artwork also integrates specially designed habitats for local wildlife, including a pineapple-shaped birdhouse and bug “hotels.” The pineapple motif nods to the fruit’s historical association with prosperity during the 17th and 18th centuries.
The design poignantly depicts older generations lifting up the next, symbolizing growth and the passing of knowledge.
References to the Dearne’s rich industrial past, particularly brick-making and coal-mining, are subtly woven into the artwork. Adding a musical dimension, the sculpture incorporates notes from “Take Me Home,” a beloved song chosen by the Thurnscoe Harmonic Male Voice Choir.
Emerging Barnsley artist Ailish Treanor has played a supportive role in the design process, gaining valuable experience alongside Dan Jones, underscoring the project’s commitment to nurturing local talent.
Dan Jones expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “As someone who has lived in the Dearne Valley since I was a child, I have enjoyed meeting so many other people to learn what living here means to them and design a sculpture we can all be proud of.”
He highlighted the diverse artistic approaches used during the consultation, from collages to model making, involving a wide range of community members.
“The sculpture is symbolic of the area’s growth and how its future is built on the foundations of its heritage, while the ring in the centre represents the communities coming together and looking to a bright future with greater opportunities for everyone,” Jones explained.
He also noted the visible passion for nature and the remembrance of industrial and agricultural heritage within the design, echoing positive feedback from students at Dearne Astrea Academy who feel their ideas are represented.
A planning application for the artwork has now been submitted, with installation anticipated this autumn, subject to approval. The project is a collaboration between Barnsley Council and cultural organization Beam, funded through the £23.1 million Goldthorpe Town Deal, which also includes initiatives like the new Horse and Groom Square and improvements to the Dearne Playhouse.
Cabinet spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, Cllr Robin Franklin, highlighted the sculpture’s role in creating a strong sense of place: “We want this new sculpture to give a strong sense of arrival, enabling people coming to the Dearne to learn a little about the area, while also reflecting people’s experiences of living there.”
Matthew Stephens, chair of the Goldthorpe Town Board, echoed this sentiment, stating, “I’m delighted so many people have been involved in helping to create this bespoke design for the Dearne. It shows the area’s emergence through time and illustrates the past, present and future of the Dearne.”
He also expressed his pleasure that local companies will be involved in the production and installation of this “ambitious and optimistic” landmark.
