Nottingham’s residents and visitors are being invited to share their views on a new piece of public art.
As part of the project to transform the former roundabout on Maid Marian Way, a newly created public artwork is planned for the pedestrian area in front of the Premier Inn. This space will also feature a rain garden, home to water-loving plants that will add colour and life, as well as helping to mitigate flooding events.
BACKLIT Gallery is working with Nottingham City Council and It’s in Nottingham to invite expressions of interest from artists for the artwork, which is set to be themed around Maid Marian. A survey is also now live, allowing members of the public to give their views on what kind of artwork they would like to see and which artist should create it.
The online survey will run until 28 March 2025. The information collected will help inform the process, shaping it by and for the local community. Later this spring, the public will have the opportunity to vote on three options, with the winner announced in summer and the new artwork installed later this year. Overall, the project will include various community-led initiatives to encourage wider conversation and bring people together.
Funding for the Maid Marian Way project, including the public art, was secured from the central government’s Future High Streets Fund. The funding was awarded to deliver schemes aimed at renewing and reshaping Nottingham’s high street in a way that improves experiences, drives growth, and ensures future sustainability.
The Maid Marian Way project, planned for completion this summer, has already converted the old roundabout into a T-junction, making space for vastly improved pedestrian and cycle facilities. The unique public artwork will further enhance the area, which is a key gateway into the city for many local residents and visitors.
Nottingham City Council Leader and Executive Member for Strategic Regeneration, Transport and Communications, Councillor Neghat Khan, said: “The transformation of Maid Marian Way isn’t just about better transport links—it’s about creating a more vibrant, welcoming city that reflects our rich heritage.
“We’re calling on the community to have their say on a new public artwork celebrating the legend of Maid Marian. This is a unique chance to shape a piece of art that will stand as a lasting tribute to our city’s history and be valued by both residents and visitors. With the addition of a stunning rain garden, we’re not only making the space more beautiful but also more sustainable. I urge everyone to get involved—this is your city, your story, and your chance to help create something truly special.”
Suzanne Golden, Co-Director of BACKLIT Gallery, said: “This project goes beyond simply commissioning a new public artwork—it’s a celebration of our community, our local history, and the vibrant spirit of our city. BACKLIT has been at the forefront of nurturing and developing arts and cultural initiatives since 2008. This initiative presents an incredible opportunity to showcase the diverse creative talent thriving throughout the city.
“By working in partnership with artists and organisations, we look forward to sparking meaningful conversations that will leave a lasting impact on our community.”
Alex Flint, CEO of It’s in Nottingham, said: “Nottingham has an exciting and rich creative vibe, so we’re very excited to be able to support a project that expands our offer as a cultural city. We are also proud that, together, we are giving local residents an opportunity to have their say on what will become part of our cultural legacy and the creative fabric of the city.
“This public artwork will also give us another opportunity to recognise Nottingham’s diverse and thriving creative communities, which bring so much to the city for both residents and visitors to enjoy.”