Protest over Quantum Leap costs

A Shrewsbury councillor will today publicly spell out his objection over a controversial piece of public art created to commemorate the bicentenary of Charles Darwin.

Councillor Jon Tandy has urged people to turn out at 3pm today at the site of the Quantum Leap sculpture and Darwin Memorial Garden in Mardol Quay.

Councillor Tandy, in a message posted on his Facebook page, said he had asked Shropshire Council not to spend any more money on the artwork.

Last week George Candler, assistant director culture and leisure at Shropshire Council, said the final budget for the sculpture was expected to be £450,000.

It was thought the project to create Quantum Leap and the Darwin Memorial Garden in Mardol Quay would cost £350,000.

Tomorrow Shropshire Council's cabinet is being asked to approve a budget increase of £100,000.

It means the council will have scope to spend up to £483,090 although Mr Candler has said only £450,000 was expected to be spent.