Critics fail to stop plan for letters artwork across district

The plans involve installing seven 5ft tall free-standing letters, spelling out the word S-H-A-R-R-O-W, in seven locations around the neighbourhood.

Prior to the planning committee meeting at Sheffield Town Hall on Monday, officers had recommended that the scheme should be given consent, saying the letters would not create any problems for local residents and would "generate civic pride in the area".

One of the scheme's supporters, Coun Jillian Creasy, described the letters as "in keeping with the spirit of Sharrow." She said: "They will brighten up some unused pieces of land and raise awareness of Sharrow as a geographical entity.

"The project is intended to be short-term, followed by a review and possibly moving the letters to a single location."

However, 13 letters of objection had been submitted to Sheffield Council regarding the artwork. One objector, who lives close to the proposed letter R, said: "This piece of artwork is likely to attract graffiti artists and become nothing more than a monstrosity."

Other opponents had claimed the letters would be an "eyesore" and would have no meaning" unless viewed in order.

The planning application was submitted by the Distinctive Sharrow Action Group, which will now be responsible for reviewing the project.

Each of the seven letters will be linked to a local group, business or individual who will monitor its condition and carry out maintenance work, such as graffiti removal.