Glass artwork celebrates Sunderland’s industrial past

A GLASS artwork celebrating Sunderland’s industrial and shipbuilding history has been unveiled at a housing scheme.

Work by Creative Cohesion artist Roger Tye has been installed on the ground floor of Keelboat Lodge, in Lucknow Street, Hendon, Sunderland.

Heritage photographs showcasing the city’s past, as well as modern-day images, are on display as part of the scheme for older folk.

Coun Graeme Miller, Portfolio Holder for Health, Housing and Adult Services, said: “I am so impressed with this housing scheme.

“I have to say the attention to detail is second to none.

“So much effort has gone into making this development one which reflects the heritage of the East End and its local community, with the aim to make this an interesting and very ‘local’ place to live.

“There is so much to look at, from specially-designed glass artwork to large photographs displayed around the walls.” Keelboat Lodge was developed through a partnership between care provider Housing & Care 21, Sunderland City Council, the Homes and Communities Agency and developers Tolent Construction Ltd.

Christine Bendall, assistant property development manager for Housing & Care 21, said: “We want our new schemes to genuinely reflect and celebrate the heritage and history of their local area.

“The glass artwork by Roger and the historic photographs of the area are beautiful to look at, and give a real sense of the area’s past.

“They also prompt a lot of wonderful memories for the people living here.”

Mr Tye got involved in the project, which is aimed at new housing developments for older people, through Sunderland City Council’s partnership with charity Creative Cohesion, which was formed by local artists.

The charity aims to engage people in art projects and provide free resources to the public.