Plans for a sculpture framing a view of Dumbarton Rock from the town’s new walkway have been criticised for lacking in diversity.
Dunbritton Housing Association has applied to West Dunbartonshire Council for permission for the monument, with this mocked-up image showing how it would look.
But locals have reacted with fury over the design, with the planning application attracting objections after our story went online.
One of the objectors criticised the proposed look of the monument as she says it isn’t in keeping with the council’s vision.
She said: “The portrayal of the ‘ideal family’ of mum/dad/son/daughter in this design is not reflective of the council’s inclusion policy.
“This is strongly anti-inclusive and reflects old and inappropriate attitudes to what reflects ‘family’.”
Another said there would be a better focus on marking the area’s rich heritage, saying: “There is nothing about the sculpture that ties in with or in any way complement the character or design of the area. It in fact detracts, being of a very modern design, which would be put into an area that links two conservation areas.
“It has been great to see so many improvements being made to the town, celebrating the history or the area. This would be an opportunity missed to continue and enhance that work if this sculpture, in its proposed design, were to go ahead.”
Meanwhile on the Lennox Herald’s Facebook page, one reader likened it to the recently removed geese at Balloch’s Stoneymollan Roundabout.
Gerard Galloway said: “We get rid of the monstrosity at Balloch roundabout and WDC want to erect a new eyesore at the castle.”
The structure would sit on a plinth and feature four silhouettes, as well as a depiction of Dumbarton’s famous elephant.
The elephant is pictured on the town’s crest and is said to have been chosen because its shape is thought to resemble Dumbarton Rock.
Dunbritton Housing Association who has submitted the plans is currently undergoing a £15million project to bring 200 new homes to Dumbarton town centre in conjunction with Cullross at the site. We reported in December that talks were continuing with DFC and Turnberry Homes over delivering the final sections of the path.
