A STRIKING and unusual sculpture has been installed at the entrance to one of the UK’s fastest growing science parks.

Plexus, a six-metre structure created by inflating and stretching stainless steel, acts as a landmark for the North East Technology Park (NETPark) in Sedgefield, County Durham.

It was commissioned by Commissions North, part of the Arts Council England North-East, in a series of public art installations in County Durham.

It is hoped the art will raise the profile of the county and promote it to businesses.

In Our Image, a sculpture of a giant head, at the entrance to Aycliffe Business Park, Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, is part of the same initiative.

Councillor Neil Foster, portfolio holder for economic regeneration for Durham County Council, said: “The sculpture will help when promoting NETPark abroad, developing a symbol by which NETPark can be recognised, but it is also an important statement about incorporating art into the new and different environments.”

The design of the sculpture was inspired by the work being done at NETPark which is home to developing science and micro-technology firms.

Stewart Watkins, managing director of County Durham Development Company which develops and manages NETPark, said: “NETPark is a vibrant scientific community that is developing at pace.”