An imposing eight metre high sculpture called ‘Danum’ has been lifted into position in Sir Nigel Gresley Square today.

The new public art provides the finishing touch to the impressive new square which will officially open on Sunday 3 June (1-5pm) as part of the Big Launch that celebrates the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Designed by local artist, Michael Johnson, ‘Danum’ has incorporated many key themes which have made Doncaster the great place it is today.  Commenting on his artwork, Michael Johnson said: “Having known Doncaster for many years I feel it was the contribution of many factors which made the town the way it is today, from the River Don’s border position between the Brigantes and the Coritani tribes, to the decision to bring railway engineering to the town and the urban development which followed.

“I wanted to represent a broad cross-section of these factors in the artwork. The sculpture encapsulates this sense of place through cast-bronze references to the town’s past and present. Each of the bronze panels has its own theme represented by artefacts and visual references. Alongside these images are artworks designed by children and adults from local schools and community groups, which they produced through workshop sessions.

“It has been a privilege to make this work and I’m very thankful to all the individuals who have helped and contributed to the project.“

With its fabulous modern features, mix of hard and soft landscaping and ‘Danum’ as its centrepiece, Sir Nigel Gresley Square in Waterdale will be a perfect setting for relaxing and socialising. The square is also important for the success of the Civic and Cultural Quarter (CCQ) project which is seeing new civic offices, a performance venue and various other attractions created to help encourage more people back into this part of the town centre.

The CCQ is being delivered by Muse Developments in partnership with Doncaster Council.  The project is being part funded by the European Union, as part of the European Regional Development Fund’s support for the region’s economic development.