A tactile heritage
trail is currently being created
for the Lace Market, and is due to open in April
2002. The Trail, designed by photographer Alec Keeper, will comprise eight
interpretative sculptures, and be accessible to those with vision impairment
as well as sight.
The sculptures, seven in marble and one in clear resin, have been created in a 3-D relief form with the assistance of clients at the Nottinghamshire Royal Society for the Blind. The reliefs convey impressions of the area's architecture through the sense of touch, while an accompanying sound guide, written by Andy Barrett, will navigate visitors around the sculptures and provide historical notes. A bronze plinth at bollard height will contain all the sculptures.
Visitors to the Trail will be able to collect their guide equipment from the Lace Market Visitor Centre, 3-5 High Pavement. They can then set out on the Trail, considering the area from Georgian times through to the present day. Tactile maps will also be available. The sites for the eight sculptures are: the Visitor Centre, the Pitcher & Piano, the Galleries of Justice, St Mary's, Broadway, the Adams Building, the Fothergill Warehouse* (on the Stoney Street/Barker Gate corner) and the Ice Stadium.
The Project continues to work closely with various client groups and the City Council in developing the finished work. The Local Heritage Initiative has provided funding support, with additional awards from the Nationwide Building Society, the City of Nottingham, Arts & Business, Experian, and The Lace Market Heritage Trust.
Anyone requiring further information should contact: Alec Keeper on 07977 900 275.
January 2002
* For Cuckson, Hazeldine and Manderfield (1897)
The trail is now "open" and has been reviewed by Shirley Brookes, a visually-impaired member of the Society.