Work has started on a new 'gateway sculpture' at one of Belfast's most prominent roundabouts.

The landmark art piece, at Carlisle Circus, will reflect the area's historical significance as a centre of the linen industry.

Designed by renowned Scottish artist, Iain McColl, the sculpture consists of an eight-sided column, reflecting the chimney stacks of the Belfast mills.

On top of these 'stacks' will sit a gondola, which will house steel 'flames' conveying a beacon of hope for the future: the design will allow the flames to be moved by the wind.

The sculpture is one of the centrepieces of Belfast City Council's 'Renewing The Routes' programme for the Crumlin Road area. The initiative aims to address the declining economy and environmental quality on the Crumlin Road, from Carlisle Circus to the Ardoyne roundabout.

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The plans highlight nodes for regeneration activity along the Crumlin Road, which include Carlisle Circus, a major gateway to north Belfast, the lower Crumlin Road, the Ardoyne roundabout and Glenbank.

Work already undertaken includes shop front improvements on the lower Crumlin Road and at Glenbank, and restoration of the façade of the historic Belfast Orange Hall in Clifton Street.

Other projects include further shopfront improvements and landscaping schemes at Agnes Street/Cliftonpark Avenue and Glenbank Drive.

The 'Renewing the Routes' programme aims to improve the environment across Belfast's main roads, including Falls Road, Shankill Road, Crumlin Road and Springfield Road. It is a partnership approach to regeneration, led through Belfast City Council working with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Belfast Regeneration Office and the Area Partnership Boards, and is supported by the Integrated Development Fund.

(JM/BMcC)