Statue will be in town centre for three years

The 26ft flower will be placed near All Saints’ Square for up to three years, with its permanent home being within the Forge Island cinema development.

The Camellia from sculptor James Capper will be a “continually animated” piece of art modelled on the plants found at Wentworth Woodhouse.

A report from Rotherham Council’s planning department said: “The proposals are for the temporary siting of the sculpture in this prominent location, until it will be moved to an appropriate permanent location on Forge Island.

“The location is highly sensitive in conservation terms being immediately adjacent to the grade I-listed Rotherham Minster.

“The appearance of the artwork is subjective and may not be to everyone’s taste.

“However, it is not a building or permanent structure and it is considered that it is acceptable in design terms to be sited in this location on a temporary basis.

“It is therefore considered that the sculpture would not harm the setting of the minster or the town centre conservation area and would help to add visual interest to this part of the town centre.”

The artwork’s first home will be on the pedestrianised area at the junction between College Street and Effingham Street.

It will be made of painted metal, have hydraulic up and down movements and a maximum width of 13ft.

The project is being led by Gallery Town, an open air art project aiming to bring more visitors to the town centre.