'Salt Lime and Me' public artwork set for Winnington Village

‘Salt Lime and Me’, by Chester-based Colin Spofforth, comes as part of a developer contribution from David Wilson Homes, near the site of the former Brunner Mond factory.

The work includes four installations made up of eight lifesize bronze figures – made to look like they are encrusted with salt as a tribute to the area’s heritage.

Colin, who has produced work for display at places including the Trafford Centre, Etihad Stadium, Prague and Bucharest, said Northwich’s history was the inspiration for the work.

Colin's work at Manchester City's Etihad Stadium

He said: “The Brunner Mond factory was set up to manufacture soda ash and to do this requires three main ingredients – salt, lime, and human ingenuity. Salt Lime and Me is inspired by these components.

“The bronze figures stand on limestone plinths, which is cut and shaped from slabs of Buxton stone – the same quarries that supplied the plant when it was in operation.

“The figures are quiet in the way that the factory is now quiet and they serve as preservers and standard bearers of the future.”

Section 106 agreements in larger planning applications allow for developers and the council to work together to ensure the wider area benefits from new homes being built.

Andrew Taylor, planning director at David Wilson Homes, said: “Public art should tell a story, and David Wilson Homes is always keen to enhance the surroundings of the areas it builds in and accentuate their historical achievements.

Colin's work at First Street, Manchester

“Like every good public art installation, Salt, Lime and Me will serve a talking point for the community as it serves as a strong reminder of the area’s scientific heritage.

“We would like to thank Colin for creating a thoughtful tribute to the history of Winnington Village and we look forward to seeing how it will be received by the development’s community when it is unveiled this summer.”