A public exhibition was recently held by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council in Trerhondda Chapel, to debate the future of public art in Ferndale.

The public were invited to learn more about the importance of public art, how the proposed bronze sculpture of a cow could form part of the wider regeneration for Ferndale and to have their say on the proposed artwork.

The Council received over 400 comments at the event, which included over 50 online comments, one of which came from Australia. Those who commented were of all ages and demonstrated how important community involvement and engagement is in such a project.

It was vital that the Council received as many comments as possible to ensure that an appropriate informed decision be made. The exhibition also provided the Council with many ideas and recommendations for consideration in any future proposals for Ferndale.

Ideas for future public art themes included a mining theme with one particularly innovative idea for solar powered mining lamps.

Feedback was mixed, one voter commented that: “Ferndale needs something vibrant and overtly obvious” whereas another commented “the Strand is not a place for public art”

Overall a large majority of the comments were against the proposed artwork of the cow sculpture. The Council are aware that community engagement is a significant factor in building local ownership; this includes improving resident satisfaction and understanding the views and expectations of the community. It has therefore been agreed by the Council that the cow sculpture will not proceed any further. However the council are committed to further regeneration work in Ferndale and recognise that artwork can play a significant role in contributing to this regeneration.

It is encouraging that over 50% of people who commented wish to be involved in future public art proposals for public art in Ferndale. As such should artwork be considered in Ferndale’s wider regeneration a further consultation process would take place.

Councillor Annette Davies, Ward Member for Ferndale, said:

“Public consultation has been especially effective in Ferndale, where over the past few years, so many people have taken the time to come out and see for themselves what we have already done for the town and plan for the future.”

“I am pleased that local people again took the opportunity to give their views at this latest consultation event. I want to involve them at every stage as it is vital for people to continue working with me so our aims match theirs.”

“The Council is hopeful to shortly secure further investment to improve Ferndale town centre. I look forward to the work commencing outside ‘The Anchor’, the walkway through Lake Street from the car park, and improving the area by the side of the library.”

“I hope to fulfil the full potential of Ferndale so everyone in the area can benefit. This is a rolling programme for Ferndale to continue working to improve our town centre and park.”

Councillor Paul Cannon, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Housing said:

“As part of the regeneration of its town centres and key settlements, the Council has prioritised Ferndale with the improvements to the Strand and the new Lime Street Car Park among the considerable progress made.”

“This work continues and the additional public consultation that has been recently undertaken has proved useful in helping to forge a way forward to carry on regenerating Ferndale.”

“Regeneration can take many forms and we consider all potentially beneficial projects and sources of funding, taking the views of the community on board.”

Councillor Ceri Jones, Ward Member for Ferndale, said:

"I would like to thank local residents for turning out in such large numbers for the recent exhibition held in Trerhondda Chapel. It was very important to me that local people were given the opportunity to voice their opinions. The overwhelming number of people who were against the cow being placed at this location justified my request for the survey. I will continue to listen and look after the best interests of matters which affect the residents of Ferndale & Blaenllechau".