FURIOUS locals say giant planters brought in by the council have ruined a popular UK high street – and they cost a fortune.
Kirklees Council praised the installation of 39-foot planters in Huddersfield's town centre as 'striking pieces of art'.
But residents expressed their anger at the new planters erected in the middle of New Street.
Annoyed locals have said that the planters look 'horrendous' and 'absolutely ridiculous'.
"I walked through [town] for the first time in 3 years at the weekend and was appalled at the state of it," one man said.
"Unless the council does something about the absolutely disgustingly dirty approaches into town, then any prospective visitors are going to drive straight on."
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The huge planters were developed by the artist Tim Ward and they will be filled with greenery in September, the council said.
One woman compared the circular shapes of the planters to toy baskets in 'Click and Catch' games, while another person questioned whether the designer behind the planters was a Spiderman fan given its webbed patterns.
The planters also drew comparisons to TV masts and phone towers.
Huddersfield Civic Society, a local group that works with the council on multiple projects, claimed that they were "not convinced" by the planters.
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People complained about 'wasted money' as costs to build the planters amounted to £250,000.
Many residents questioned how Kirklees Council could afford to pay for the installation given that it needs to save upwards of £45 million this year.
The local council has avoided bankruptcy, but it has only done so by cutting back on non-essential services.
"Total waste of money when roads need fixing," a person complained.
Others noted that the council could have taken cheaper steps to make its town centre more attractive.
One woman said Huddersfield could do with more "street trees" rather than mere "imitations".
The council believes that the planters will 'save valuable floor space' and add a 'sense of pride' to Huddersfield.
They said that the installation of planters will 'bring more people into town' and also boost shopping.
But some residents were sarcastic about the quality of shops located in Huddersfield.
"It looks like it could blast us to Leeds or Manchester to get a proper shop done," one commented.
Kirklees Council said that the planter will improve the town centre, which is an 'integral part' of their long-term plan to grow the local economy.
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"As with all such projects, the designs, plans and full budget for the street were conceived some time ago when the economy was in a different place.
"Now that works have begun, we are committed to carrying out the rest of the plan so as to enhance the experience of those who shop and use New Street, increase footfall, and bring huge benefits to the businesses based there."
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