PLANS have been revealed for a £40,000 art installation in Southend funded with public money, prompting fierce criticism.

Three “fridge-magnet-style” 3D artworks are planned to go on the side of the Victoria Shopping Centre, alongside a giant “postcard”. The relief sculptures will depict scenes from the city’s history, along with Southend landmarks.

Meanwhile, the brightly coloured postcard bears references to Southend Pier, the Kursaal, and Never Never Land, adorned with psychedelic writing.

Echo: Postcard - Lu Williams' design for a light box to be displayed on the side of the Victoria Shopping Centre.Postcard - Lu Williams' design for a light box to be displayed on the side of the Victoria Shopping Centre. (Image: Lu Williams)

A £40,000 contract is being offered to a company to construct and install the artworks, which were designed by Southend artist Lu Williams.

However, the project – which is funded by the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport – has drawn criticism from a Southend councillor who has branded it “a waste of money”.

Echo: Artist - Lu Williams from Southend was chosen by a panel of residents and artists to design the installation.Artist - Lu Williams from Southend was chosen by a panel of residents and artists to design the installation. (Image: NQ)

Stephen Aylen, independent councillor for Belfairs, said: “It’s a very bad use of money, especially when councils are going bust all over the country. If the Government can hand out £40,000 for a bit of art, they’ve got to get their priorities straight. That money should be added to the council’s budget. 

“It really misses an important point and sends the wrong message, as people will think the council’s wasting money.”

Echo: Criticism - Councillor Stephen Aylen says the money should be used to help struggling councils.Criticism - Councillor Stephen Aylen says the money should be used to help struggling councils. (Image: NQ)

The artworks were commissioned by Southend’s Focal Point Gallery and arts programme Creative Estuary, which is supported using public funding from Arts Council England.

Lorraine Cox, director at Creative Estuary, feels the “playful and inviting” public artworks will play a key role in the city’s ongoing regeneration.

Ms Cox said: “This growing collection of public works of art and festivals plays a central part in the regeneration of this seaside city, animating public spaces and inviting visitors.

“Southend is particularly lucky, with many fantastically talented artists living in the area, and a very lively creative scene. 

“We believe the Thames Estuary area is a uniquely creative place and Southend is a leader in developing art in public places.”

Echo: Display - the artworks will be installed at the Victoria Shopping Centre.Display - the artworks will be installed at the Victoria Shopping Centre. (Image: NQ)

The £40,000 contract to build the artworks will be awarded to the company which provides “the best value”, Ms Cox says.

She added: “This is a complex fabrication job for a public place, and so safety and technical skills are important.”