Controversy over Olympics-themed sculpture likened to ‘giant Cornetto’ in Andover, Hampshire

Residents of Andover, Hampshire, are up in arms over a newly unveiled 30-foot high sculpture of an Olympic torch, with one resident comparing it to a giant Cornetto ice cream cone. The sliver metal torch, said to represent a “symbol of hope,” has been labeled an “irrelevant monstrosity” by locals who believe the £69,000 spent on the project could have been better utilized elsewhere.

The sculpture, located at the Picket Twenty Sports Ground in Andover, was commissioned by the Test Valley Borough Council and funded by Persimmon Homes as part of a public art initiative. However, residents are adamant that the Olympic theme has no relevance to their community and have criticized the artwork for being out of place and a waste of money.

Despite the artists’ intentions to symbolize hope and unity through the torch sculpture, residents feel that it does not reflect the essence of their town and have expressed disappointment over the lack of consultation before the installation. Many locals have taken to social media to voice their displeasure, with one resident calling the sculpture an “eyesore” and questioning the decision to prioritize art over essential infrastructure such as road repairs.

Local councillor Luigi Gregori acknowledged the subjectivity of public art but suggested that clearer communication about the artwork’s purpose could help alleviate criticism. While Persimmon Homes defended their funding of the project, residents remain divided over the sculpture’s value and its impact on the community.

As the controversy surrounding the Olympic torch sculpture continues to escalate, it remains to be seen whether the residents of Andover will warm up to this towering symbol of hope or continue to view it as an unwelcome addition to their neighborhood.