RESIDENTS have been asked to have their say on proposed designs for wayfinding artwork at the junction of a busy shopping street.

If approved, the wayfinder will be installed on the junction of Head Street and Sir Isaac’s Walk in Colchester’s town centre.

Behind the potential sign lies a hub of shops and food outlets including Subway, Attitude Inc and a series of cafés and independent shops.

The busy Sir Isaac’s Walk also acts as a key route to Culver Square and Lion’s Walk.

An online survey is now live until next Wednesday where residents have the opportunity to have their say on initial proposals for the piece.

It comes as part of a wider strategy spearheaded by Our Colchester BID and Colchester Council to make improvements to the town centre and support independent businesses, particularly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

It also follows similar proposals for creative wayfinding on Short Wyre Street revealed last month.

Essex-based artist Ben Coode-Adams was selected to design the work, bringing a wealth of experience as a sculptor who has regularly made work for the public realm in metal.

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The sculptor has focused on Colchester’s unique history for the piece, drawing on items in the museum collections for inspiration.

Colchester BID has 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 and invite visitors to explore further.

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 project is being managed by Colchester-based architecture practice HAT Projects, which is also responsible for the forthcoming transformation of St Nicholas Square.

The online survey can be found via www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/2XQJU2.