New Carved Oak Bench Unveiled in Otley’s Tittybottle Park

Community collaboration brings new artwork to local park

A new hand-carved oak bench has been unveiled in Tittybottle Park, Otley, created from a tree that was previously located near Otley Bridge. The bench was crafted by local artist Shane Green, known for his large-scale timber sculptures that often reflect natural themes and local identity.

Project background and design process

The oak used for the bench came from a tree removed for safety and accessibility reasons as part of the Otley Bridge footway scheme, a project aimed at improving walking routes across the town. Leeds City Council ensured the timber was repurposed to provide lasting community value, also donating some wood to the Wharfedale Mens Shed.

Year 5 pupils from St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School were invited to contribute design ideas inspired by Otley’s landscape, wildlife, and heritage. Their concepts were reviewed by Otley Town Mayor and town councillor Paul Carter, who selected the motifs incorporated into the final carving by Shane Green.

Community involvement and event details

• The unveiling event was attended by the Town Mayor, the headteacher and pupils from St Joseph’s, ward councillors, and the artist Shane Green.
• A short film documenting the footway construction and associated challenges is available to view.

Statements from key participants

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy, culture and education, said the project demonstrated how infrastructure improvements could also foster creativity and community pride. He praised the pupils’ imaginative designs and the artist’s craftsmanship in creating a public artwork for Tittybottle Park.

Artist Shane Green described the pupils’ designs as full of energy and character, expressing satisfaction in giving the former Otley Bridge oak a new role within the town.

Luke Gilhooly, headteacher of St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, noted the excitement and engagement of the children in the project and looked forward to sharing the bench with the local community.

Next steps for the park area

Although the bench installation is complete, wet ground conditions have delayed turfing, which will now take place in early spring. Leeds City Council will also provide plants to Otley in Bloom for planting in the coming weeks. The council-maintained circular flowerbed in the park will be reinstated during this period.