‘Connect’, Hayward’s Heath Public Art Scheme: ARTIST’S BRIEF

1. Introduction

The former Wilmington Way Estate comprised a mid-1960s development of purpose built social housing constructed for Mid Sussex District Council. The estate subsequently transferred to Mid Sussex Housing Association, and in 1996, Mid Sussex Housing Association merged with Downland Housing Association.

In September 2006, Downland HA approved the demolition and redevelopment of the former properties at Wilmington Way as this represented the best solution to the problems of the existing homes.

Subsequently, a joint venture was formed (Wilmington Regeneration LLP) between Affinity Sutton Homes and Linden Homes to deliver the Affordable Housing and Private homes (186 No. total) across the development now known as ‘Connect’.

Planning approval was granted in 2008 with demolition commencing thereafter. Construction of the new housing commenced in the Autumn of 2010 and overall completion of the development is programmed for Summer 2013.

2. Background

As part of the new development, Wilmington Regeneration LLP has a planning obligation to provide a contribution for public art. The budget is currently held by Wilmington Regeneration LLP.

Further to a meeting with representatives of Wilmington Regeneration LLP and Mid Sussex District Council, a Public Art Support Group has been proposed to support the scheme.

The group are now looking to appoint an artist / artist(s) to develop some work for the development.

As defined in the Mid Sussex District Council Commissioning Guidelines, the Public Art will be permanent and can be in the form of several types of media.

All public art schemes must be approved by Mid Sussex District Council before any work can commence.

This is an open artist brief and the support group welcome responses from Artists of all disciplines.

It should contribute to the character of the development know as ‘Connect’ and the wider area (i.e. the Bentswood Ward) responding to a range of opportunities including public benefit to residents and visitors, reflecting the sense of place of the development and engaging the local community.

Locations have been discussed and the preference is to display the Public Art in one of two public recreation areas.

For more information please contact:

James Richards
(Technical Manager)
Linden Homes Guildford
Victoria House
London Square
Cross Lanes
Guildford, Surrey
GU1 1UJ

E: james.richards@lindenhomes.co.uk