Tamworth public art work 'Taking Flight': councillors question whether sculpture could be run over, councillors share their views

Like it or hate it, the $50,000 sculpture called 'Taking Flight' is doing exactly what public art is designed to do - create a conversation, Tamworth Regional Council (TRC) liveable communities director Gina Vereker said.

"Transport for NSW has signed off on that, it's only just been given approval and I'm also aware we are about to start the fabrication of the actual sculpture, so it's definitely moving forward," she said.

"There is more to it than meets the eye, I'm certainly happy to provide a workshop with the councillors so everyone can understand the background and how it has gotten to this point."

The sculpture sparked a conversation at Tuesday's council meeting between some new councillors who weren't overly fussed on the design, and the old-guard who gave it the tick of approval.

Cr Bede Burke said the feedback he's getting from the community is that they "don't like it".

"It's not representative of what we are, the country music capital, we have an equine centre - there are a whole lot of other things that could actually be highlighted," he said.

"I would like the current council to have some ownership over this issue and for it to be discussed more fully."

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The sculpture, designed by Everlon and Co, was developed in consultation with a working group of former councillors and independent artists.

It's called 'Taking Flight' because of its links with aviation, the landscape and innovation - and would be placed on the massive roundabout as visitors come into town from the airport.

There was some concern among councillors that placing the structure in the middle of a busy thoroughfare could put it at risk of being run over.

"What are the contingencies if a truck runs over it? Is there enough space that a truckie won't just come flying down there and straight over the top?" Cr Mark Rodda said.

General manager Paul Bennett said the roundabout is a significant concrete structure and it would be difficult to go through the middle of it. Cr Helen Tickle shared a similar sentiment.

"It is huge, so if any truck doesn't negotiate that roundabout - they shouldn't have a licence," she said.

The councillors will be given a workshop on the piece's meaning.

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