Great Oaks housing development new sculpture installed

The Great Beam, a large public artwork made from reclaimed timber, now stands at the centre of the new Great Oaks housing development in Engine Common, South Gloucestershire.

Designed by Somerset artist Adam Blencowe, the sculpture was commissioned by developer Newland Homes to reflect the area’s industrial past and is crafted from recycled beams from a former railway bridge.

Mr Blencowe said: "I wanted The Great Beam to be something people could really enjoy, not just to look at, but to touch, sit on and explore.

"The piece is all about connection: between people, between past and present, and between the new community and its historical surroundings."

The sculpture is inspired by the beam engines that once powered the region’s collieries, a key part of South Gloucestershire’s industrial heritage.

Mr Blencowe worked closely with the South Gloucestershire Mines Research Group to research the area’s mining history.

He also ran a mobile-making workshop for children at North Road Primary School, inspired by the principles of the beam and fulcrum that were used to power the beam engines.

The Great Beam has quickly become a focal point of the 84-home Engine Common community, offering a place to pause, sit, play and connect.

A formal unveiling event will take place next year, once the landscape surrounding The Great Beam has matured.

Sasha Sutherland, designer for Newland Homes, said: "Great Oaks is now home to many new residents and The Great Beam celebrates how Engine Common has come full circle, from its coal-fuelled past to a clean energy future.

"The children loved climbing and playing on it, and I hope others will enjoy it just as much, whether it’s a place for quiet reflection or for a clamber and chat."

The Great Oaks development is made up of highly energy-efficient, zero-carbon homes.

Each property includes high levels of insulation, solar panels, air source heat pumps, and an electric car charging point.

The homes have achieved an EPC rating of A for both energy efficiency and environmental impact.

Some properties have even scored above the top possible rating.

The development also includes allotments for residents and a natural children’s play area.

Only eight homes remain for sale, with prices starting at £390,000 for a three-bedroom semi-detached property.

The Hampton, a four-bedroom detached view home with all furniture included, is available for £555,000.

Newland Homes worked with public art consultant, Suzanne Heath, to find the artist and deliver The Great Beam project.

Of the 84 homes, 85 per cent have already been sold.

The development has quickly established itself as a thriving new community.