New artwork will pay tribute to Sunderland's mining heritage

New artwork paying tribute to Sunderland’s mining heritage is set to be unveiled after winning planning permission.
Artist impression of pit wheel artwork in Hetton area, Picture: Acre DesignArtist impression of pit wheel artwork in Hetton area, Picture: Acre Design
Artist impression of pit wheel artwork in Hetton area, Picture: Acre Design

Councillors threw their support behind proposals for a structure on land near Lorne Street, in the Hetton area.

This includes a ‘pit wheel mounted on a plinth’ and information plaque funded by Sunderland City Council’s Coalfield Area Committee.

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According to council documents, the artwork will have a crucial link to the area’s mining past by using a pit wheel originating from Elemore Colliery.

Artist impression of pit wheel artwork in Hetton area, Picture: Acre DesignArtist impression of pit wheel artwork in Hetton area, Picture: Acre Design
Artist impression of pit wheel artwork in Hetton area, Picture: Acre Design

The 3.5metre high wheel is currently in Washington but will be relocated to the site under the project led by G&A Developments (NE) Ltd.

Ideas for project originated from local community groups several years ago and were previously discussed by the Coalfield Area Place Board.

The artwork has been designed by Newcastle-based architectural firm Acre Design.

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When completed, it will become a common sight for drivers visiting the Hetton-le-Hill Community Golf Club and golf course- which was built on the waste heaps of the former Elemore Colliery site.

Following discussion, the council’s area Development Control Sub-Committee rubber-stamped the plans with a unanimous vote.

In future years, the site will be maintained by the voluntary organisation Sunderland North Community Business Centre under a council licence.

The wheel would be the latest reminder of Sunderland’s coal mining heritage to be installed in the city.

Other artworks and relics of the mining industry around the city include the Davy Lamp outside the Stadium of Light, Ryhope’s pit pony and Washington "F" Pit museum.