A STRIKING piece of artwork is set to be put up in Colchester’s city centre to celebrate independent shops.

The work designed by Essex-based artist Ben Coode-Adams has been given the green light by Colchester Council.

It will be in Sir Isaac’s Walk to mark the entrance from Head Street.

The artwork aims to highlight the Colchester ‘indies route’ showcasing the city’s independent shops and businesses and will be placed on the wall of the Culver Square toilet block.

Other options for a archway and totem sign were rejected due to planning constraints and public feedback.

The design is made of enamelled and galvanised steel with the text spelling out Sir Isaac’s Walk.

It also features a number of historic figures from Colchester’s past including St Helena and Boudicca.

The planning statement said: “Parts of the sculpture will remain in a galvanised finish, mid-grey, while others will be painted with durable colour and lacquered to a deep and resonant finish.

“The paintwork will incorporate textured effects to achieve a jewel-like finish, reflecting Anglo-Saxon metalwork such as that uncovered at Sutton Hoo.

“The aim is to achieve a sculptural finish that looks lush, spectacular and desirable.”

The report added: “It is anticipated that the sculpture will be lit through integrated lighting and small spotlights, ensuring the artwork will have a visual presence after dark.”

Colchester BID previously said the key junction between Head Street and Sir Isaac’s Walk suffers from poor signage, and the wayfinder is intended to help announce and celebrate the distinctive identity of the streets.

Speaking last year Sam Good, BID manager, said: “Colchester has such a strong offering of independent shops and unique roads. Installations such as this will help highlight the unique areas of our town that deserve celebrating in a way everyone can enjoy.

“We’re thrilled to be working with architects and designers such as Ben, it highlights the strength of the artistic community we have here in Colchester. “ The new artwork follows an archway which was put up in Short Wyre Street to act as a wayfinding piece, helping people navigate the city centre earlier this year.