River Walk Wooden Sculptures

Witham Town Council is delighted to invite residents and visitors to explore a new collection of wooden sculptures installed along the town’s popular River Walk.

The sculptures form part of public art project funded through developer contributions collected by Braintree District Council.  These Section 106 contributions were specifically allocated to be spent on public art in the community.

The sculpture trail features six totem-style carved posts located near key entrances to the River Walk, together with ten additional wooden sculptures positioned throughout the route.  As visitors make their way along the route, they will discover a range of wildlife designs inspired by animals and birds round along the River Walk, including an otter, fox, rabbits and kingfisher.

The sculptures have been created by Simon O’Rourke, the artist commissioned for the project, by using chainsaw techniques to carve the nature designs into wood.  The sculptures have been designed to encourage people to enjoy the outdoors while discovering unique pieces of public art in natural surroundings.

A dedicated sculpture trail map will be available from Witham Town Hall in the coming weeks to help visitors locate each carving and explore the full trail experience.

Town Mayor, Councillor Paul Heath, said ‘We are pleased to complete this public art project utilising Section 106 funds to provide an interesting addition to our much loved River Walk.  We hope that the sculptures will provide focal points for visitors of all ages and encourage more people to enjoy this important open space”

Further information about Witham’s River Walk and the new sculptures can be obtained by contacting Witham Town Council on 01376 520627, or by visiting the Information Centre at the Town Hall.