Market Harborough Sculpture Plan Approved Despite Criticism
Written by HFM News on 17th February 2026
Plans for an illuminated sculpture in Market Harborough’s Friendship Park have moved forward after planning permission was approved.
The three-metre-tall steel artwork, set to be installed later this year, will display friendship-themed words and phrases, projected onto the park’s paths after dark.
The Friendship Park & how the sculpture is set to look (inset) Pic: Arthur Francis Sculpture
Some councillors raised concerns about the project, with Cllr Simon Whelband, leader of the opposition Conservative group, branding it “rubbish” and suggested planting flower beds instead, citing ongoing maintenance costs.
Meanwhile, Cllr Peter James, Chairman of Harborough District Council, backed the scheme, saying it would be a much-improved sight compared with the mobile phone mast that previously occupied the space.
The £10,000 project is being funded by FCC Environment, the council’s contractor that helped create the park last year.
Councillors voted seven to three in favour, with one abstention.
