A striking new sculpture is making waves in South Gloucestershire, captivating residents not only with its design but with its profound tribute to Yate’s industrial roots.
The artwork, known as The Great Beam, has been unveiled at the heart of the Great Oaks housing development in Engine Common, which features 84 zero-carbon homes. Designed by Somerset-based artist Adam Blencowe, the sculpture pays homage to the iconic beam engines once used to pump water from the local mines, a pivotal part of the area’s mining history.
Crafted from reclaimed timber salvaged from an old railway bridge, The Great Beam is more than a visual landmark—it serves as a communal space for residents to sit, play, and engage with one another. A formal unveiling ceremony is planned for next year when the surrounding landscaping reaches full maturity.
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In collaboration with the South Gloucestershire Mines Research Group, Blencowe delved into the region’s rich mining heritage, which included coal, ochre, celestine, iron, lead, and stone extraction. The distinctive silhouette of the beam engine inspired the sculpture’s final design.
“The sculpture embodies connection: linking people to each other, past to present, and the new community to its historic surroundings,” Blencowe explained. “My aim was to create something interactive that residents could touch, explore, and enjoy.”
Local children from North Road Primary School participated in a workshop led by Blencowe, crafting mobiles inspired by the mechanics of beam engines, further tying community engagement to the project.
Sasha Sutherland, designer for Newland Homes, the project’s developer, remarked, “Great Oaks is now home to many new residents, and The Great Beam reflects Engine Common’s journey from its coal-driven past to a sustainable future. The children’s enthusiasm for climbing and playing on it is a testament to its inviting design. We hope it becomes a space for both reflection and lively gatherings.”
The initiative was brought to life through a collaboration between Newland Homes and public art consultant Suzanne Heath. With 85% of the homes sold, Great Oaks is emerging as a vibrant and sustainable community.
Each residence in Great Oaks is built to zero-carbon standards and carries an EPC ‘A’ rating, featuring high insulation, solar panels, air source heat pumps, and electric car charging points, with some homes surpassing the highest energy efficiency ratings.
Beyond housing, the community offers natural children’s play areas and allotments available to residents on a first-come, first-served basis.
Priced from £390,000 for a three-bedroom semi-detached house, only eight homes remain, including a fully furnished four-bedroom ‘Hampton’ detached view home listed at £555,000. For more information, visit www.newlandhomes.co.uk or follow @newlandhomes on social media.