New sculpture ‘flying high’ at Daedalus Common

A DRAMATIC new Gate Guardian sculpture is catching the eye of passers-by at Daedalus Common.

The eight-metre high work of art depicting Daedalus poised to take flight for the first time has been installed by Fareham Borough Council next to the Peel Common roundabout.

Funded by the National Grid specifically for the project, it was chosen by Fareham residents from a shortlist in 2019. The winning entry was by Nigel Searle, an artisan blacksmith who set out to design a sculpture to inspire hope and achievement as well as the joy of discovery.

Portsmouth-based blacksmith Peter Clutterbuck, who specialises in large-scale iron artwork, then created the piece, which is now a striking focal point for Daedalus Common. The opening of the wider site has been delayed due to the pandemic but is set to become a large new area of public open space, with footpaths and cycle routes, wildlife habitats and dog walking areas. A play park has also been installed, for children of all ages and abilities, which takes inspiration from the airport.

Executive leader of Fareham Borough Council Councillor Seán Woodward said: “The public support for this sculpture was incredible and I think we can all agree how impressive it is now it has been installed. Once this special site is safe and ready to be opened to the public, the figure of Daedalus is sure to become a landmark for the whole community.”

For more information about the Gate Guardian project please go to: http://www.fareham.gov.uk/planning/regeneration/daedalusgateguardian.aspx