Two new sculptures have been installed by the Carlisle Southern Link Road.
Made by Eden Valley artist Ellie Barden of Grace Forge, the steel installations are at the new Durdar and Brisco roundabouts.
Cumberland Council said it had integrated the landmarks into the project to ensure the new route had a strong, unique, and recognisable identity.
Chosen following community engagement in 2024, the sculptures are made from durable, low maintenance weathered steel.
Weighing around four tonnes each, they are designed to last and celebrate Cumbria’s deep-rooted agricultural community.
The Mare and Foal at Durdar roundabout is near Carlisle Racecourse.
The council said: “This piece celebrates the city’s rich equestrian history. Carlisle is proudly home to the historic Carlisle Bell, who first contested in 1599 and is officially recognised as the world’s oldest sporting trophy.
“The sculpture serves not only as a nod to this incredible local legacy but also acts as a welcoming gateway to the future St Cuthbert’s Garden Village, symbolising growth, regeneration, and new beginnings.”
The Limousin Bull at the Brisco roundabout is at the historic site of the Cumberland Show. The sculpture was in part inspired by Graiggoch Rambo, a Limousin bull that made international headlines in May 2022 when he sold for a world-record 180,000gns (£189,000) at the Carlisle auction mart.
Cumberland Council said: !The bull represents the strength, resilience, and world-class quality of Cumbria’s rural community, offering a proud welcome to residents and visitors.”
Cllr Denise Rollo, Cumberland Council’s executive member for sustainable, resilient and connected places, said: “These sculptures are a celebration of our local heritage and the strong rural identity that underpins communities across Cumberland.
“They showcase the talent of a local artist, create distinct landmarks for the new route, and reflect the pride we have in our past and our ambitions for the future. The Carlisle Southern Link Road is moving closer to completion, and these installations mark a really exciting moment in the project.”
The remaining sections of the Carlisle Southern Link Road are due to open following a full road safety review, which is planned to take place next month.
