Water is the only factor known to be vital for life, so it’s not suprising people and all types of wildlife are drawn to it, whether it’s still or moving. The Don and Sheffield’s other rivers are such an asset, although in a different way from the area’s industrial past. I’ve been to places where there’s no river or lake, and they do feel incomplete.
I really hope the relevant authorities find the funding and the will to return these treasures to an attractive and safe state. When I was a child, my family took part in a number of canal restoration projects, and the number and enthusiasm of the volunteers was astonishing. I bet something similar could be organised for the Don by someone with the right skills.
The improvement in general wellbeing - beautiful landscapes, pollution-free travel, improved biodiversity, children growing up closer to the natural world, enhanced sense of community - would surely be worth every penny!
Great article, really informative. However, how come the council has money to spend on commissioning 'loopy' artworks but not for maintaining 'decaying' signage? Do SCC just dish out these commissions to favoured artists or are they put out to tender??
Thanks Elaine - I believe the council may have managed the commissioning without spending much (or perhaps any) money, with EON and British Land paying the artist’s costs. I’ll try & find out. Glad you liked the post!
Water is the only factor known to be vital for life, so it’s not suprising people and all types of wildlife are drawn to it, whether it’s still or moving. The Don and Sheffield’s other rivers are such an asset, although in a different way from the area’s industrial past. I’ve been to places where there’s no river or lake, and they do feel incomplete.
I really hope the relevant authorities find the funding and the will to return these treasures to an attractive and safe state. When I was a child, my family took part in a number of canal restoration projects, and the number and enthusiasm of the volunteers was astonishing. I bet something similar could be organised for the Don by someone with the right skills.
The improvement in general wellbeing - beautiful landscapes, pollution-free travel, improved biodiversity, children growing up closer to the natural world, enhanced sense of community - would surely be worth every penny!
Great article, really informative. However, how come the council has money to spend on commissioning 'loopy' artworks but not for maintaining 'decaying' signage? Do SCC just dish out these commissions to favoured artists or are they put out to tender??
Thanks Elaine - I believe the council may have managed the commissioning without spending much (or perhaps any) money, with EON and British Land paying the artist’s costs. I’ll try & find out. Glad you liked the post!