In 2008, energy supplier E.ON committed funding towards creating a public artwork for Sheffield as part of its development of the Blackburn Meadows renewable energy plant. The project has evolved several times since then, with the company maintaining its commitment to create an iconic public artwork for Sheffield, which is co-funded by British Land, who look after the Meadowhall site. Sheffield & Tinsley Canal, looked after by the Canal & River Trust charity was specifically chosen to be the focus and destination for the artwork. The site forms an important part of the City’s Green Network and is a local wildlife site.
A year-round attraction
It is also part of the vision for the transformation of the Lower Don Valley area and complements the recreation offer that has already been established there, including that of Tinsley Marina, Meadowhall, IKEA and the Olympic Legacy Park. It is envisioned that visitors will use the opportunity to combine trips to The Looping Boat with a visit to other local amenities.
The contemporary artwork offers a free, year-round, outdoor, visitor attraction, that has been designed to live permanently on the canal. Working in harmony with its historic setting, it is hoped that the artwork will be a source of surprise, delight and continued discovery for the local community and visitors. Drawing on Alex Chinneck’s proven record for creating ambitious public artworks with broad, popular appeal, it is hoped that the artwork will attract a new generation of visitors to discover this hidden asset together with its important role in Sheffield’s history and draw attention to the area's historical and contemporary relevance.
