Bradford's newest and most controversial addition to its collection of modern sculpture has finally arrived in the heart of the city.

But it will remain under wraps for at least another month until completion of the pedestrianisation scheme between Forster Square Station and the Darley Street shopping area.

Yesterday, a six-metre high stainless steel needle was lowered by crane into its permanent position in Duke Street, protected from ongoing construction work by blue plastic sheets.

Commissioned by Bradford Council and designed by Gargrave-based Chrysalis Arts, the £10,000 sculpture is designed to lead the way into the main shopping area of the city and represents the city's strong links with the textile and woollen industry.

Councillor Latif Darr, Executive Member for Transportation and Planning who oversaw its arrival, said Bradford was becoming known for its modern sculpture across the country and that the needle would add to the national interest.

"People have their own opinions, but overall, it's going to be a magnificent piece of sculpture and an important gateway to the main shopping area from the station.

"It's excellent for the people of Bradford to see and for others around the country."

After the council's decision to commission the needle last June, the Telegraph & Argus was inundated with letters from readers saying the needle was a waste of money and would have more in common with the tailoring trade of Leeds.

But watching the needle, weighing almost a tonne, being lowered into place, licensee of the Boilerhouse nightclub opposite, Dean Loynes, said it was a welcome addition to the area.

He said: "It's an improvement to the area which is what everybody wants - it's been a long time coming. It's supposed to be what people see when they come from the train station and it's going to give the correct image."

And Jane Freear from Undercliffe agreed. She said: "I don't think it's a waste of money, I think it's lovely. It's a landmark for the community."

But Helen Mindham, who also works opposite the new sculture, said: "It's absolutely scandalous. I think it's repulsive even if it is under wraps and £10,000 is an appalling amount to spend on it. There are homeless people around and they're always going on about the state of the NHS."

The statue will be officially unveiled in April.

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