Features

Brenda (Melbourne)
Having been to Liverpool recently, one of the highlights was to see the '100 Quiet Scousers' (as described with a sense of irony by a Liverpudlian friend in Sydney). What I saw I really enjoyed and found it a shame that there were not more of such 'installations'in the area. My own view is that despite the negative feedback from sports fans and anglers, all should be done to keep the sculptures, either in the immediate area or somewhere nearby. If you guys are serious about your Culture you need to start showing it now and not in 2 years time. If not careful like so many other Liverpudlians these 100 Quiet Scousers will move on to pastures new. Sounds familiar....

Johnny Morris
As a Crosby resident I regard the statues as a load of crude rusting junk and an eyesore on what is a beautiful beach. Apart from Mr Gormley, and possibly the ice cream man on the Blundellsands prom,I would like to know who has got the millions of pounds that is supposed to have been brought into the area. I vote to get rid of them.

Susan, Crosby
Yes, they should stay. They are definately a conversation piece - every time I have been to see them they evoke some kind of conversation with a passer by - something that does not usually happen. However, I think Sefton Council should 'cash in' on them and provide some kind of eating/seating facility.

Hazel Simpson
the decision to remove the statues is ridiculous on several fronts-the closeness of the year of culture.. the renewed interest in a previously under valued area and the stimulation of visitors.Health and safety is a cover all excuse and I am shocked at the naivety shown by some of the committee

dave williams
I think it great news for crosby that they stay, why is it that spoilsports seem to win all the time,if the surfers and anglers cant see them then they need glasses,they are a good touurist attraction and its about time we had somthing no other city has for a change,

Gary Godfrey (Liverpool)
When I first visited the statues, in the knowledge that they'd be moving on, I thought that they made a statement about looking forward, travelling to new destinations, a statement about hope. If they stay it'll be like a statement of missed opportunity, after all they've already travelled from other locations, so it would be wrong of us to lay claim to them.

GB
I am amazed at the backward, unimaginative decision of Sefton Council, particularly given the reason cited. The two sewage outfalls which are fully submerged at high tide must be far more hazardous to surfers and anglers than the statues, which lie in a clearly marked zone and don't pollute the sea. The arguments in favour of the installation staying on Crosby Beach far outweigh those against: any other decision must be looked upon as irrational.

Terri R
I think the statues should stay. I have lived in Crosby all my life and never has the beach area been so interesting. Just read all the comments on this website it must be 95 per cent in favour of the statues staying. Kite surfing? Sea Angling? Come on!! How many people have been affected by not being able to participate in these "sports" as compared to the increase in tourism for the area? The council could address the safety issue if it was brave enough.

Karen in Liverpool
Nothing but spectacular ... they're fantastic and its an honour for our region to display them. They enhance the coastline and 600,000 people can't be wrong ... mesmerising and impressive, shame on Sefton Council for making this disgraceful decision..... What a unbeleiveable backward step ..... I'd be gutted to see them go ..........

Anna Tipping
The statues have become an iconic piece of art within the local area and would be greatly missed not only on an sculptural level but also the local economy and tourism would suffer immensely - numbers of tourists have increased, all because of the statues. The backdrop for these statues is spectacular and several of my friends who have visited Liverpool for the first time, have commented that seeing the statues at sunset are their lasting memory of their visit to Liverpool. I don't want them to go and I think Sefton Council are foolish to let them to go.

Jean H
This artwork has had a major impact on the visitor numbers and has positively benefited the Crosby area. People who would never dream of visiting a gallery or art exhibition are able to experience and interact with a piece of art 1st hand. Now the council wishes to remove this opportunity - how selfish!

kevin deery
I live in Plymouth and went to visit relatives in Waterloo...What a delight it was to see Gormley's Another Place...Sefton council need a massive re-think.To lose a work by one of the countries best sculptors is maddness!! Kevin Deery sculptor.

Julia
I live a couple of minutes' walk from the beach - I'm going to be so sad to see the statues go. Sefton Council has a lot to answer for - to all you people moaning about people walking out too far, surely all it would take is for the council to invest in a few large signs warning people of the dangers of the soft sand and tides (the ones currently on the beach are tiny and quite unobvious). If people then ignore them, that's their problem and not mine - don't make me suffer for other people's stupidity. Anglers: with all that equipment, surely you must be in a car. Drive up the coast a bit. Windsurfers: I've lived near the beach for five years and the only place I've ever seen windsurfers is on the Marine and never in the sea.

Andy
Well, they've come from Germany, had a stay in Norway and another stop in Belgium before coming here, now it's time for them to be on their way to America. Would be a tad selfish to keep them, even though they will be missed. I've even been part of a dance video around these statues, was great fun but it's time to say goodbye.

Jean Formby
Stop wasting Sefton ratepayers money .There is a good scrapyard at the end of the docks in Waterloo transport costs would be minimal to take the rusting hulks there. There is also the increase litter problem and if Formby Point is anything to go by there will be an increase in car crime both are a drain on the rates So Get Rid of the Eyesore on Crosby Beach

Alan Smith
There's quite a lot of coastline around Britain. Perhaps the anglers and kitesurfers could use another stretch? It doesn't seem so much to ask of them so that we can retain this excellent piece of art on our shores.

Lucy Holdsworth
I like the statues and have been 3 times even though I live in Manchester. I think they should stay.

Rachel Williams
This is the mosting interesting thing that has happened in the area and attracted so many people, which has a knock on effect for local business. The fact this is listed in an international exhibition 'The Biennial' which attracts visitors from the UK and further proves what a positive installation these are.

Seth Martin
Amazing. There are miles of beach in the Northwest which can be used for all kinds of sports and beach activities. Open your minds and begin to realise that there are many sides to life - maybe I should start to campaign for the total ban of Sea Angling? After all, that doesn't appeal to me.

j, smith
the statues should stay at crosby,if for no other reason than by sheer weight of numbers there are far more people want them to stay than dont. all these boat owners and water surfers are just looking after their own selfish ends

Mary H
I have seen the statues a couple of times, made special journey there, they are amazing, I met people in the south who have seen them and they all think they are great, Crosby is not a nice beach you can walk there but not safe to swim, leave the statues we love them

judy cole .north devon
I think the sculptures are fabulous and would like to see something similar produced in this area. Things like this encourage people to think and question.We have a huge coastline and I'm sure there is room for art lovers, anglers, boatmen, surfers and philosophers. As for health and safety,as long as people are forewarned I don,t see why there should be a problem, we can't always save people from themselves, it falls under the category of having the freedom to choose.

Scully
I find it amusing that thrillseekers such as kitesurfers and windsurfers are complaining about something as risky as art. Seriously though, this makes me want to cry, it seems mean spirited and spiteful, the trampling of hope and wonder in area that has had both meagerly rationed to it over the last 3 decades, If they do go, maybe the statues should be turned back to face the land as a final statement on the victory of parochialism; Crosby beach briefly hosted something special and unique but the humdrum and shortsighted triumphed. Maybe that is the lasting legacy of this.

Jenny, Liverpool
A place for contemplation, relaxation and inspiration. To see these figures removed would be a loss to me but if it enables other people to gain from them as I have then there is an argument for them being moved on. The true joy of 'Another Place' is that it is accessible to so many, is open to individual interpretation and completely embodies what 'public art' should be. I hope they stay, however, if the time has come for them to move elsewhere, I hope that they provide as much joy to others as they have to me.

Phil - Wirral
I can appreciate both sides of the argument but would like them to stay as an interesting addition to the area. The Kite surfers and boat users I feel can also be appeased. The beach spreads over a very long distance from Liverpool right up the Lancashire coast. The statues can only possibly take up 1-2km of this stretcha nd the rest can be re-used by others for sports or fishing as they wish all it requires is some common sense. The statues whether you like them or not have brought enjoyment and intrigue to many people and do not in the long term adversely effect the beach. They may even promote wildlife forming a safe haven from fishers and the sportsmen so vehemiantly opposing them. LET THEM STAY (at least for another year or two!)

Susan Collier
They are fabulous, an asset to Merseyside. If Sefton are too stick-in-the mud to hang onto them, perhaps we could keep them on Merseyside by moving them to a Wirral Beach such as West Kirby. Sefton have their heads in the sand!

Lezley Finch
This weekend will be our fifth visit from Leicester to Crosby, to see "Another Place". It is unbelievable to read comments from people who do not want this wonderful installation to stay. To say I am envious of people who can access such a compelling work of art on a daily basis, would be an understatement. Crosby, WAKE UP! Hold on to this and treasure it. Nothing in the world is entirely safe for everyone, so H and S arguments sound nothing short of ridiculous. Don't get rid of "Another Place" - you will surely regret it more than you can imagine.

Sheila Enamu
Why should New York inherit something, that looks beautiful in the place where they are already? They are very impressive and with 2008 being the Capital of Culture Year for Liverpool its senseless to move them.

gerry donnelly
Shame on you Sefton Council. If this excellent and unique work of art was considered a health and safety concern why were they allowed to be installed in the first place. Capital of Cultiure 2008 - not if Sefton Council have their way it would appear. These unique statues have generated millions for the area and attracted visitors from far and wide. A bad thing ? I think not. Let common sense prevail. They should stay !

John Dunn
The statutes should stay, it is really an impressive piece of art that adds to the rich cultural diversity of Merseyside. It is both foolhardy and short-sighted in the extreme for the views of a minority to prevail over and above the benefits of having such a wonderful piece of art. Their objections are spurious and should be condemned as such.

wayne kitesurfer
Time for them to go,we have been banned from using this spot for our sport for too long now, we have not been allowed to kitesurf there since they arrived, why not put them in the centre of anfield or goodison and go and sit down and look at them.

Tony Town
The statues should stay. It would be a travesty if they were taken away and shame on Sefton Council for making this disgraceful decision. We often visit the statues and take friends from outside the area to see them and everybody says how fantastic they are. PLEASE PLEASE do not make this mistake as we have this amazing gift and we should be proud of it. C'mon Sefton, change your stupid decision and keep this treasure. Regards Tony Town

Chris Cadman
What a shame that Sefton Council doesn't have the imagination to keep the statues in place. It must look small-minded to those outside the area. How many boats have foundered on the statues in the months they've been there anyway. None at all perhaps? By the way, can we talk about the Lancashire coast please - that's where they are.

Dud
They are a one of a kind and stay. Council just don't want to part with the cash for future maintenance if the truth be known.

KittyKat
What r u on about! Why can't the stay where they r?

Rosie Morris
I think they should remain.They are art for everyone and everyone should have access to them

Mike McGrady
The statues must go this is not a visitor attraction area, we are a residential area and do not have the amenities for this type of situation. I am not surprised that Antony Gormley wants them to stay he will pocket a large amount of money. Funding is required in our area but not for modern art. We are led to believe that money can only be used to buy rusty iron for a shore. Please can the MP try and get the real issues of Crosby sorted – Increase Crime etc. Not wasting her time on scrap iron and lads mags. Maybe if she did not waste time on these types of projects she may turn up to Westminster on time and not miss important votes.

Christine Rogers
The statues should definitely stay - they're fantastic and its an honour for Crosby to have them. They enhance an otherwise dull beach. The safety concerns are absolute nonsense - if some of the statues are underwater sometimes why can't they be moved further up the beach? The Council should show a bit of backbone and stand up for this great treasure.

Martin From Liverpool
While we are at it, why don't we dismantle the 'Angel of the North'in order to prevent any potential paragliders in the area flying into it!?!

Sean
Of course they should stay! The people who want them removed are merely petty whinging, self important health-and-safety-obsessed do-gooders, with nothing better to do...

Annie C
The statues are wonderful and enhance a very dull piece of coastline. It's a disgrace that local councillors have voted that the statues should be removed on dubious health and safety grounds. If public safety is a real problem then surely this is something that Sefton Council can address without resorting to this sort of publicly-funded small-minded philistinism.

james
i want to kitesurf please take them away!!

John & Dee
We are Crosby residents, totally in support of the Gormley statues, as also are all our friends and relatives. Sefton has always been swamped by developments in Liverpool - the statues put us on the map. They also served as a centrepoint for impressive gatherings at Christmas and Easter, bringing people together to celebrate the real reasons for these festivals, not just the monetary nightmares they have turned into. 5000 people attended the nativity show. Let there be a vote, instead of just Debi Jones' self-promotional objections based on her opposition to Claire Curtis Thomas.

Chris
This is an unbeleiveable backward step by a council stuck with political correctness and no forward vision. How can Liverpool claim to be capital of culture in 2008 when it allows narrow minded and quite petty thinking to ruin one of the most innovative pieces of public art to be comissioned in the UK. If Sefton do not reverse this decision they are clearly not listening to the majority of the people they report to represent.

Neil F
I think we should be honoured that Antony Gormley would allow them to stay. I have lived on Merseyside all my life and prior to the statues turning up, I have never been inclined to visit Crosby before.

Gary Williams
Famous liverpudlians . Just the 4 statues then?

terry cotton
Another backward step. The region's short-sightedness is becoming an embarrassment. Is this decision really due to safety or money?

Tony Feneck
We don't live in Liverpool now, but my wife is Liverpudlian and we have family in Lydiate. The statues are fantastic - and they MUST be kept. All public statues can be climbed on and fallen off and so are potentially dangerous. Does that mean we should get rid of all staues!? Gormley is one of the few contemporary artists who engage with the general public as opposed to an artistic elite. What would Sefton's rejection of the work say about the North West and in particular Liverpool as a City of Culture? It's unthinkable that they should go. Please think again Sefton.

Emma
The view off the beach does not require "enhancement" by anything - it was beautiful as it was. It also seems slightly odd that the actual beach users who used it daily werent taken seriously originally. What sort of a council installed something for people who visit once or twice a year, only to cast out those who use the beach daily? I'm all for a bit of risk - if you walk out that far then you risk getting cut off, your choice - but the installation completely eliminates any possibilty of water usage. Anyone who thought the beach was good for nothing else and ask "why else would anyone come to crosby" is clearly very blinkered in their view of the area and doesnt understand that a beach is part of a community - not just an empty space that needs filling. For those who think the local people have embraced them as their own - your view is flawed - you dont find a large portion of the local people at that beach anymore because it has been spoiled - all you get is day-trippers and the view of those who dont really care so see it as good. If you cant see the NATURAL beauty of the area you shouldt really have a comment. Everything is about bringing in cash these days, not about enjoying what you have as it is. Why can people just leave these areas alone - they feel like they have to "do something with it"? Send the art over to the US - lets see how long their legal minds take to remove them. I do not use the beach but living in the area I hear a lot of complaints about the statues - I dont hear many compliments, but thats to be expected - those who love it dont live near it.

graham seaman
they should stay... the objectors are a tiny minority, their reasons nonsense when weighed against the benefits to the economy, interest in the area. For every one objector there are 100 (at least) local (or otherwise) people who want them to stay. Don't let this be another stunning idea / concept which slips through Liverpool's fingers - especially this close to 2008. Sefton Council? Local Capital of Nonsense. Check out www.thegoodintentions.co.uk for some stunning photos of the work. Regards - Graham

nicola johnson
Another Place should be allowed to remain for as long as possible - it is an amazing opportunity to have such a fantastic and unique work of art in the North West - as many people as possible should be encouraged to see the work and the council should be doing their utmost to fight to keep it here for as long as it can.

James
Having found them on the beach by accident (there are no signs explaining where they are) I thought they were particularly unspectacular. Big rusting hulks that do nothing but stop the sea *users* using the beach. This has stopped all watersports being carried out at the beach and interrupts the anglers. Its about time users of the beach were questioned, not the people who never see the beach except when theres some "art" on it. Whether you consider the hulks to be art or not the council destroyed the watersport based economy in the area and being a port city that seems slightly stupid. Just because we are capital of culture does not mean we should disturb the existing local life with farcical artwork. There would be hell to pay if it was put in a football field.

Charles Roberts
I agree lets keep culture in the "city of culture" If money is the issues why don't we get club together with Liverpool’s twined cities and annually share the statues with each other. I think the idea of the statues evolving in different the cities and environments would be wonderful and bring the twining of towns/cities closer.

Yvonne Brehaut
They are beautiful. There always seems to be someone prepaired to complain. They should stay

Kevin
The statues must stay on Merseyside. The reason that Liverpool is on of the world’s great cities is, that the far sighted Victorians placed so much emphasis on art.

J Travis
I lived and grew up in Waterloo and these statues are the best thing to ever arrive there. The area (unlike Crosby)is deprived and in need of urgent regeneration. The statues would bring tourists, money and hope to the area. Crosby Council are pandering to a few rich individuals (from Crosby and Blundellsands) who want the beach all to themselves. The statues should stay - I think there should be a mass gathering on the beach to show that the people of Merseyside do not want them to go.

Ian
Utterly sickening.Fotally gormless decision.A fine example of "the ties" getting involved in what is none of their business....Public art is for the public to enjoy. Then they come out with the health and safety issue.Hogwash!Nanny Britain again.What next? Take the trees down in Sefton Park so the kids don't climb on them, or stop Saturday morning golf in case the golf balls hit someone.

Gary Waidson
A great shame that an artwork of such international stature could not remain here. This was previously displayed in Norway and many Norwegians regret losing it in hindsight. Some people never learn.

bob malik
when i moved to liverpool crosby in january the first thing i saw were these statues, i walked on the beach and could view the height of the sea using these statues, they go so complete, its as if liverpool crosby is loosing on of its greatest monuments, what i dont understand is when the government/councils can spend money on various project we all can disagree why cant they save the statues from the yanks.

Big Bob
Let them go and then why dont we just commission some of our own? In the shape of famous Liverpudlians - that way they can't be taken away.

Susan Anderson
They should stay. It is a fantastic scene. I've been twice to see them and had planned to go again. It will be a loss to Crosby when they go - why else would anyone want to go to Crosby?

David
Typical Sefton council using a flawed consultation process to hide behind to allow the most significant artistic event of recent times to leave. It's an absolute disgrace! Local people need councils with vision and bold hearts, doing what they know is right, even if the minority speaks loudest!

Paul Turner
As an exiled Crosbeian, I love seeing the statues when I visit home. There are enough acres of sand & sea for everyone, including the Iron Men. And as for H&S, people have always tried to walk out to the "landmarks", even when Burbo Bank was still known as "the coast erosion". Yet again, local government shoots itself in the foot in a misguided attempt to wrap us all in cotton wool - life wouldn't be life without an element of adventure, whether physical, emotional or spiritual. Let them stay.

Jill
I would like the statues to stay.As one gentlemen mentioned,since they have been here we have been able to have peaceful walks along the front wothout the drone of water bikes....we have got one of the most beautiful waterfronts and amazing sunsets ...these statues enhance that.

Francesca Walker
This is obviously a complex issue. We only visited the statues for the first time a few weeks ago, but I think they are fabulous. So many people don't "get" modern art, my self included, but anyone who visits there must feel just how powerful this type of installation can be. It has revitalized Crosby Beach in a way nothing else could. On the danger issue, there have been no major problems so far, but I suppose it would take just one tragedy for the whole attitude towards them to shift. On the fishing issud, is there really nowhere else for the anglers to go but New Brighton? Couldn't the council sort this out and leave the statues where they are?

Anne Tillotson
They are beautiful and should stay where they are.

Dave Price
I agree the statues should go before a life is lost. We have had a couple of near miss's.the people who want them to stay should make a large donation to the RNLI and Coast Guard to cover the cost of rescues caused by people putting themselves in danger due to these statues.

Sammy
I'm surprised at all this hullaballoo, haven't people got anything better to address in their lives? Yes, it's been nice having them, inspirational, sombre, fun for kids, unique perhaps but I'm afraid when councillors and people regarding 'generating local income' start jumping on some political bandwagon then the statues become some materialistic issue instead of what they are : art!. Let the statues go, we've seen them and enjoyed them, it's time to let some other people enjoy them at 'another place'!.

dave e
a fabulous work of art like this should stay. i can't believe that there is talk of get rid of it from a beach that is not fit for much else i gather.

Siobhan
me and my brother are both 12 and we live very near the beach we love coming down with our mates but the best thing is when i have finished swimming me an my mum and my brother all go down and watch the sunset it is lovely to see the men standing there we don't want to see them go.

Jenny Burke
I have travelled to Crosby several times from Ilkley in Yorkshire, specifically to experience Another Place. The installation is supremely suited to its loaction at Crosby. They look stunning. I would probably never have visited Croby except for the staues, but now I have discovered other places of interest in the region. We have precious few pieces of large scale art in this country. The council would be foolish to let them go. People interact with the installation and around the installation very well. They bring something that is priceless.

LynnOrmrod
I think they should stay..would love to see them here in Aus.

Gary Williams
Simply stunning ,they should stay. Having said that should we keep them to ourselves. Anish Kapoor's sky mirror looks stunning in New York (we were there recently).Gormleys statues would look fantastic on Brighton Beach or Staten Island (NY)

Philip Lowe
They are said to be a danger to shipping and wild life. If they were lumps of cast iron in another shape, e.g. WW2 tank traps would you want them left to decay and remain a hazzard. At high tide they are submerged. Let them go and let someone produce a lazer projection or some such of these statues so that they can be seen without being a hazzard to anyone. There are more beautiful statues than these in the walker art gallery if you want to study the human form. It's time to move on. Let's have a new non-hazzardous attraction to replace them. Any suggestions?

Kevin Humphreys
Coming up to our Capitol Of Culture year, the statues should stay. They are really good and what a great fun way to keep children interested in Art. We have our own 'Easter Island' effect all to ourselves.

Nick
This is typical of narrow mindedness in local government. The statues provide a place which challenges minds and hearts to think about the wider issues of life and should remain. Capital of Culture -what price health and safety?

M Hambleton
They should most definately stay. This is a wonderful acquisition for not only Crosby but the whole of the North West too. How short sighted of the council to refuse an extension of planning permission.This unique feature should stay as part of the Capital of Culture initiative.Surely Lottery funding could be accessed for their upkeep. It certainly beats the pile of bricks a London gallery bought a number of years ago in the name of art...This is definitive art - which is human imposition on nature - and could't have been better sited. Truly Magnificent. The good people of Crosby should show these councillors what they think of them by making sure they vote them off the council at the next opportunity. As for the Anglers and Surfers - the coastline is NOT their private preserve, and it is about time they realised it. And the wildlife ? Oh Pleeeaaasse.. I would have thought that they could tell the difference between inanimate objects and humans and so would carry on doing whatever wildlife does - naturally. And unmoving iron men are hardly likely to upset and frighten away the birds as much as a rushing windsurfer or a great big heaving boat would. Excuse the pun, but that argument just can't hold water.

Otis Bilious
The installation has proved to be very inspirational for a lot of visitors to the area. I often am opn the beach and see people wandering amongst the statues at low tide carrying their cameras and posing with them. I have even see Cherie Blair posing with them not long after they were installed.

Michael Ashcroft
The statues and their location are totally unique. This is why they have attracted visitors to the region from all over the UK and other parts of the World just to see something special. The fact that anglers can't launch their boats is not the fault of the statues - it's a lack of suitable facilities. Also, it again shows the shortsightedness and lack of vision of some members of Sefton Council's Planning Committee who cannot see the long term benefits of such a unique asset. They made a similar blunder when they permitted building to take place on another unique asset in Sefton - the Grand Prix Circuit at Aintree Racecourse! Blinkered vision perhaps?

Alasdair Wright
No question they should stay; this is an iconic piece of work from Britain's premier (& firmly favourite) sculptor. It has brought in well over 600,000 people to an otherwise neglected & deprived area which has brought enormous benefit to the local economy. This is such a "no brainer" for Sefton Council, & the "Health & Safety" issues on which they have based their decision are simply to appease a few fishermen, twitchers & surfers who can number no more than a few hundred people at the most. LISTEN TO THE PEOPLE WHO LIVE IN YOUR BOROUGH WHO HAVE EMBRACED THESE SCULPTURES AS THEIR OWN & THOSE HAPPY TO TRAVEL HALF THE LENGTH OF THE COUNTRY TO EXPERIENCE THIS WONDERFUL INSTALLATION. Nuff said. Alasdair Wright

mrs fm vinue
I hope they will be saved,

ann bailey
Hang on to them until Saturday when I can get to see them. Why else would I come to Formby?

Felicity from Crosby
As much as I would like the statues to stay (because of the artistic element and the fact they have been a tourist attraction for the area for European Capital of Culture 2008)they are a danger to local sailing activities. The heads stick out of the water so surfers or sailers have to find alternative beaches because of the dangers. Also we have had a couple of incidents were kids have tried to go out to the furthest ones and were trapped. But the main opposition is the fact they are rusting (as iron tends to do) and so the water is being polluted and effecting the wildlife-plus it leaves horrible brown marks in the sands.

John Harbourne
I am absolutely dismayed that they will not be here for the Capital of Culture year. I am ashamed of the philistines who have whinged and moaned about the statues ever since they arrived. They whingers paint all Meseysiders as uncultured stereotypes who don't appreciate art in the environment. Very sad.

Jim Miney
I think they should stay as another assett to Capital of Culture. It will be interesting to see the reaction they get at their next location. If and when the decision to keep at the new location is taken I am sure it would not be based on such a flimsy health and safety issue. If this is the reason Sefton are arguing for their removal, Why agree to them being placed there in the first instance? They should be seen as a work of art and appreciated for the joy and different aspect they bring to the shoreline.

DeggsyR
Once again the will of the few outweighs the will of the many on Merseyside - a couple of jet siers moan, and the council agree with them. Install the statues in the council - you will get more sense out of them. Change is definately not welcome on Merseyside. The councils in the area do not represent the people, they represent themselves.

Mike Scarisbrick
Crosby beach is the transition point between the industrial landscape and the "natural" coast to the north. The outfall pipe, the sea wall, the coastguard station, the docks to the south. Another Place does not detract from the local environment it enhances it.

Dean
Why listen to JUST the sportists.. the fisherman.. and ect. Most people wanted them to stay. They brought something different to crosby for a change ...

Matt Daley
Utterly stupid that they're going. The beach will just look bare and empty without them. I go running down by the beach virtually every day, and it's just great to see them there. Everyone's got used to them being there, and the fact that they're leaving is yet another example of the ineptitude and cluelessness of Sefton Council, and their complete inability to realise what's best for the community.

Gordon Stalker
I don't live in Liverpool but in Brighton in Sussex. I had the chance to visit Crosby beach earlier this year, and I really think that the sculptures should stay exactly where they are. They seem to fit-in perfectly, and it's just the sort of thing that we should all be proud of. They don't have the air of 'corporate sponsorhip' nor are they the condescending kind of 'art' that 'intellectuals' use to make everone else feel inadequate. We have plenty of that kind of thing in Brighton, and frankly much of it is just plain daft stuff put there for dafter reasons. I don't get that feeling about Crosby beach. The daftest thing I can think of is the excuses used to justify their removal. Ok, they were only supposed to be temporary, and that is to my mind the only sensible argument for their removal. There are those that seem to object to their prescence, and I really do not see how anyone can be so short sighted! Some say they causes 'ecological' problems, in that they scare birds away, frankly I don't see it unless it is due to the number of visitors the 'installation' attracts. Safety for surfers.... I would think that the rip-tides and currents in that area would be a bigger hazard! As for sea anglers having to go 'all the way to New Brighton'. I don't see why alternative arrangements can't be made. Not being 'local' put's me at an obvious disadvantage here, but there does appear to be an awful lot of similar beach in the area! The suggestion that the money would be better spent elswhere we all know to be nonesense. If hospitals and hospices need better funding, then that can be done without robbing a fund set aside for the things which make life fun. Or perhaps that would cost too much? I certainly didn't meet any local residents who objected to them, and in fact most I spoke to were very happy to have them, and would be very happy to have them stay. And before anyone dismisses my opinions as those of a 'soft southerner' I would like to point out that while I currently live in the south I was born and brought up in a part of the north where Liverpool is 'the south'. So don't fall into the trap of giving credence to these 'arguments' without careful examination of the real evidence. The fact that somene has gone to the trouble to think-up reasons for their removal tells me that someone thought it neccesary to think them up. Probably for 'political' reasons, and I can't think of dafter than that, as a basis for making a descision!

Jeff Davies
It is a disgrace that the statues are going. Why can we not use the money that was collected to keep them towards commissioning replacements?

sal
What a shame petty local politics and bureacracy might see these intriguing statues removed. Anthony Gormley is one of the most respected sculptors working today - he's British with an international reputation. Sculpture set in our beautiful landscape really works - and appeals to people not likely to visit museums and galleries. Isn't it a shame that in somewhere like America or mainland Europe a work like this would be celebrated. But the Brits are worried about Health and Safety -- snore!

andrew Erskine
It says it all, they are moving to New York, why can't we keep this real art which genuinely appeals to thousands of normal people and has attracted 600,000 to crosby - typical council busy bodies take more notice of one or two windsurfers than the majority

Les French
The statues are not only an excellent way to get close to Art, but bring a great deal of tourist activity to South Sefton. At least they look like something and not a sparrow on a pole or half a cows head. We MUST keep them

Mike
They should definitely stay. They are mesmerising. People only have to mention Health and Safety and those in positions of responsiblity immediately throw the towel in. How about getting rid of the wind farm before it arrives? Now there's something to crib about!

Steve Jennings
I hope debbi jones knows more about local politics than she does about art, or the residents of crosby might be in for a bit of a shock. Having said that, I am glad that other people around the world are being given the chance to enjoy the sculptures as much as I have.

Andrew
What is it with anglers in general that they can't bear any other sort of activity in their vicinity? They seem opposed to boaters, kayakers, walkers, anyone having any sort of fun around them, and now, according to the angler i've just seen on NW Tonight, immobile statues spoil their fishing too! Apparently they catch their lines on them and lose fishing weights. Well move somewhere else then! He was also of the opinion that "the statues are an eyesore", I think i'd rather look at some rather nice statues all day than a miserable looking fisherman, complete with tackle boxes, nets, stacks of rods and dead fish.

JANE
I cant believe they are going to move them. I thought a decision had been made to allow them to stay. With Capital of Culture just round the corner it would be a DISASTER!! Had wonderful views of the statues whilst travelling on the Sea Cat to the Isle of Man in the Summer. Nice to see from a different angle.

Dave Flynn
There are other sites on merseyside where the statues could be sited without endangering anyone, and which would not interfere with other pursuits. If the statues were to stay, and anyone, especially a child were to be harmed, or killed, what would the 'let them stay' brigade say then? It's easy to create a song and dance when you bear no responsibility for the consequences. For once, I applaud the actions of the Planning Committee.

Mike Hanton
Leave them alone. They've put another part of Merseyside ie. Crosby onto the map. People come from all over the country to see this exhibition. What's wrong with Sefton council. Is it led by a small minority of inward looking has-beens? Do thyey all live on that shore-front of Burbo-bank? they obviously want Burbo-bank to become a quite backwater again. Are they all named Debbie?

Phil
For many years I have parked up for lunch in the car park overlooking the statues and have noticed a huge surge in visitor numbers since they were installed. The more people visiting the more likely they are to be involved in safety related incidents therefore a rise in incidents does not necessarily indicate a rise in risk. It appears that a vociferous band of no more than a few hundred opponents to this major artwork by an internationally recognised artist, enjoyed by thousands, have forced their will on spineless local politicians. Gormleys work put Crosby on the map, Sefton councils work has now put Crosby back on the slope to oblivion.

lynn
I think the statues should stay, they provide much needed interest and a sense of awe to Crosby beach.

Brian Harvey
Once again the political pygmies of Merseyside have spoken! Thousands of visitors and a new icon for Liverpool cast aside for the most petty and ridiculous of reasons. No wonder this city has been on the slide for decades.

a e lynch
what harm are the statues doing they are good for tourists leave them.

sandra
take them away they are ugly and rusty spend the money else were maybe on care homes for the elderly

Tom Davies, Waterloo
The statues obviously brought many visitors into the area, however this also increased the litter on the beach and the surrounding area. I would like them to stay if it meant the facilities around the beach were improved along with cleaning services.

patrick
A coastguard on NW Today willbe glad to see them go because people go out to the distant ones on treacherous soft sand. Surely people could be warned off by better signs. You can't avoid accidents totally and these statues have drawn in visitors from afar, When they go Crosby Beach will be boring - grotty like it was before and I'll be off to Wallasey or Formby.

lawrencehighton@gmail.com
Another disaster on Merseyside like lots of things in the past will be regretted in the future, very shortsighted again

Jenny C
I think the decision on health & safety grounds is a typical and disgraceful example of red tape gone mad. Crosby beach will be bereft without the statues!

Raechel Travis
I think they should stay. They attract peoples attention. THey're something different and interesting. Especially with the capital of culture being so close, the statues are adding to the cities culture. The council have said they they are going to be removed due to 'health and safety'. Bird watchers and the like, are concerned that the statues are ruining the wildlife and such. I think it's ridiculous, the statues look fantastic. Regardless of the money being from 'tax payers ' the money has been spent on art, which actually is good, and provokes a reaction. They should definately stay till 2008, forget about the bird watchers, and listen to the people who appreciate them.

Johann Kloos
Another Place is a fantastic piece of sculpture, and without a doubt a great tourist attraction. I think the water sports brigade and the anglers have enough water to splash about in. Personally I'd rather people had this chance to experience the meditative effects of these figures than to witness the antics of overmonied speedfreaks and showoffs. The figures are placed far enough apart not to cause actual nuisance to anglers. As for the quoted "health and safety concerns" voiced by Sefton Council, these are a smokescreen. "Health and Safety" is a common justification/excuse for pushing through any unpopular proposal. And as usual, the figures are off to the United States...On a visit to Crosby, my friends and I composed a number of photographs based on this sculpture. We stopped there for a few hours to contemplate the beauty of the landscape, and enjoy the nearby sanctuary for red squirrels, which was great fun. The statues are well-placed in a wide landscape, in a manner that respects the environment. A "danger" to navigation? Navigate around it. We may return, but will miss this wonderful and inspiring addition to the landscape. For the benefit of C.Yates I am aged 45, at a time when one is most likely to find oneself contemplating one's life. This sculpture gives you space and a context to do just that.

steve
The statues were only supposed to be here for a limited time, part of the artistic theme is the fact they move on to another place. The view at the coast is already spoiled by masses of wind generators on the horizon, the statues on the beach only compound what is an all too 'busy' view. The coast should be a quiet place for relaxation, fishing, walking etc. The statues were great for a time, but they should now move on and leave us with fond memories and let us have our beach back.

C. Yates
What is the point of the "statues"? Who and what age group are the people giving their opinions about the status of the statues? I can almost guarantee they do not visit Formby beach on a regular basis or share the views of the local residents. Surely they cannot be serious about keeping these lumps of iron. The natural beauty of Formby beach does not need this so-called art.The statues are slightly more ugly than the New Brighton Clown, however, at least that statue has a relevance. Another waste of council tax payers hard earned cash. Please get rid.

Bob Jones
The statues should remain at Crosby. At low tide the statues provide interest when otherwise there would be an expanse of not very attractive dangerous sand. They have provided a different kind of backdrop to many events and photographs and at all times they are a talking point. Perhaps a small number of statues could be repositioned (or even removed) to accommodate the small number of individuals who wish to pursue their water sport on the river at high tide.

Cass
They should definitely stay, it would be a travesty to have them go somewhere else especially with the capital of culture year so close. Crosby doesn't really have much to offer (I know, I grew up there) but every time I've been back with friends from elsewhere I can show them the waterfront with pride rather than "yeah, we've got a beach but it's crap". The anglers and watersports fanatics have plenty of other coastline to use along there, why be so selfish and spoil what is a great attraction for so many people?

L McIntosh
I think the statues should stay they bring people to the beach to look at them. Why not have something out of the ordinary to brighten up your day.

Dawn D'Auvin
At first I wasn't sure how I felt about the Iron Men. People said it was "a huge waste of money" but then I discovered that the funding came from a specific 'pot' for Arts and this money couldn't be spent on hospitals, homeless etc. Over the last year I have spent many hours in their presence - Christmas, Easter and more recently 'Tales' in Another Place - and I feel that these 'rusting' Iron Men have taken on 'personalities' all of their own. They provide a setting for reflection, for fun, for discovery, for spirituality, for wonder and for creativity. Assuming that the money needed to keep them here also came from an 'Arts' pot,I would love to see them stay until 2008.

Margaret G. Quayle
when the statues came they made an impact and were an attraction. If they stay they will becoem simply part of the landscape. in an area where hospices have to rely on charity events to keep going the amount of money required to keep these statues could be better spent! Who will be responsible for their (rusting) upkeep. Yes they have been a backdrop to some lovely events, but the naturla sea. sky and beach are in themselves reminderes of God's creation and just as spectacular.

annie Spiers
I love the statues, I think they help us stop and reflect a little in a busy world. We used them in our "Christmas in another place" last year along with a donkey, sheep and real camel... and actors of course. They were the backdrop for 3 crosses on the grass at Easter and were used in the contemporary retelling of some of Jesus' parables this summer "Tales in another place". The statues inspired this theatre on the beach and were a major reason for attracting the crowds of 5000 people to come and watch the event at Christmas and a further 3000 in the summer. We hope to do another Christmas event with them this year..... I would love to see them kept til 2008 - a real piece of culture in Crosby for the capital of culture. Who knows what further creativity and entrepreneurship they may inspire.....

Sarah Mac
Many an evening have I spent down at Crosby beach watching the sunset since the iron men have been in place, and the beach just wouldnt be the same without them. How can Liverpool call itself a capital of culture if one of its vital cultural attractons is taken away??? Also, I have lived in Waterloo my whole life and never have I seen sailing boats on crosby beach, even before the statues where in place! Ive only ever seen them at the marina! Some people arent happy unless they've got something to complain about!

Alf Atkinson
They are surely what a Capital of Culture is all about,they are not just an asset to Crosby and Liverpool but to the whole of Merseyside.Let's keep'em I say!!!

margaret whittall
Please keep them as they are add interest when you are walking along the front,it's also lovely to see the chidren playing around them.Ilove them

Elkan R. Makin
I think they are absolutely disgusting.

Kate Davies
Please keep them as long as we can. They are amazing, and seem different every time we go according to the tides and the changing weather.

Terry Butler
I always thought this particular beach was desolate and without character, along came the iron men and lo and behold, the place is interesting,I think in time there will be a certain mysticism lent to the area

M Johnson
Couldnt a few of the "men" be moved to create a passage from the prom out to the sea. And put a few boys (deliberate typo) there to mark the way. Thus giving the sea anglers access to the sea whilst the rest can enjoy the statues.

pat johnson
These statues should not have been installed in the first place. Crosby beach has always had a naturally beautiful view. Why would anyone want to mar it with somebody's idea of super-imposed art?

lou tyson-smith
How many times can you say that a sculpture has made you laugh out loud? When I saw one of the Gormley statues being revealed by a retreating tide.... wearing a polka dot bikini I thought it was hilarious. More opportunities for whimsical behaviour please.

tracey dawson
I think they bring a lot of visitors, if they are in the way of people launching boats, why cant they be moved somewhere local rather than the US

Andrew Windsor
The statues have been a huge attraction.The money for purchase would rebuild the whole front promenade to a quality standard as we see when visiting abroad. This would also attract visitors and provide a resource for Sefton.

Claire
Move it yes, but ship it off to America shouldnt be an option. Keep it in the North West.

Christine Shearer
They should definitely stay. I have been down to the beach half dozen times or so, I find them absolutely fascinating, its about time that something like this happens in Sefton!

Liam Fitzsimmons
I think the statues should stay in Liverpool. They've brought alot of people from everywere to see them and they could bring even more people to see them in Liverpool 2008

david williams
They are amazing. Can we keep them please! I never really went to Crosby beach before but now regularly visit and use the train getting off at Crosby and Blundellsands, taking a walk along the front and returning via Waterloo Station after a brew in one of the cafes. I recommend it to everyone and think that the statues really enhance the use and quality of the environment. Water sports have lots of alternative venues. Please make every effort to keep them.

Dan Spree
A great addition to a lovely beach, at sunset they are truly mesmerising. The only disgrace i can see is the narrow minded opinion of Ian McKay et al, the beach is not the sole property of you and your club, the vast majority of people enjoy the beach and statues without a problem.

Robin Royle
Another Place must not go to any other place! This exhibition has a great positive effect on the Crosby beach area and should be kept. I appreciate the comments of the Sea Anglers, but surely in a Maritime City we can find another launch site for the fishermen? Also,there should be a visitor centre built with decent facilities (loos, e.g.)

JO DAVIES
I think they are great - really different and a definite talking point. STAY, STAY, STAY!

tony
remove the rusty old men, there just a eye sore the money needed to keep them here should be spent on better causes

Sue & Al
TThe statues should stay. They are awesome.

BishyBoshy
My kids love the 'tactileness' of them, holding their hands, spotting their differences. They represent Englishness standing defiantly against the marauding tide, we'll still be here in the morning, unbending, unbroken. Leave them for a bit longer then send their message to the soft yanks.

Nichola Lillie
I think the statues definitely should stay - they are a welcome addition to the beach and look stunning in all the different lights the seasons throw at them.

Carl Davies
an eyesore,waste of money,send them across the sea to the states and let us have our leisure rights back!

Neil Mahoney
If Liverpool is to be considered a city of culture, we need to recognise the significance of Another Place. The sea anglers and water sports enthusiasts are only a vocal minority.

Alan
They belong here and should stay forever. Honorary Scousers to a man, I love 'em.

Tony
The only thing Crosby is famous for are the Gormley statues and now you are actually talking about taking them away. Unbelievable!!!

john farr
a great attraction.i have taken family from yokshire who thought the statues where great they must stay

jillian morland-duff
more people use the beach for leisure purposes than fish,the statues make a great sight.If anyone has ever seen the fun the little ones have running between them they would know what an asset they are.

Colin
Nice while they were here. But time to get rid. They are a maritime nuisance and a danger. It is pure luck that no one has drowned to date. Quit while we are ahead. In the meantime the beach is un useable for all other legitimate users as their is exclusion zone around them.

Hayer Thomas
Another place was not created for Liverpool. They are only being exhibited here, so I believe they should go. However I feel they should be replaced with a unique work by Antony Gormley, created for Liverpool. Perhaps redesign the Mersey buoys in his unique style with either a Quantum Cloud or the Iron men above them.

Janet Jones, Calgary Alberta
Please don't remove the statues until I've seen them 'in person' when I visit the folks in 2007. They look wonderful on the BBC news Liverpool website which is my 'home' page.

Susan Harrison
I think they are a great attraction, and cause a lot of interest. They should stay.

Jane
Please keep the statues. They are a definite point of interest for the local area and they put Crosby on the map. It would be great to see and photograph them as the seasons change.

Una Butler
I have visted the beach at Crosby a number of times and find that it is a great pleasure.The sea anglers need to realise that the beach is not just for people with boats

Al
Stay. Items that attract people to a region need to be encouraged and supported. This anglers need to go to the wirral is simply rubbish.

Audrey Wilson
I found the statues quite scary, especially when the tide was coming in - they looked like people drowning.

Mick Saron
They should come to America so i can see them , North Carolina beach would be great , let me know ..

dave
They should go asap, loads of visitors attend Crosby Beach complete with litter and other rubbish. It would not have been so bad but there is no cafe (just an ice cream van) and they have even pulled the toilets down. Give us back our peaceful and tranquil beach.

Jeane
I think Antony Gormleys statues should stay - they are a remarkable sight and give the beach an other wordly quality of stillness and tranquility.

Robin
Please remove this rusty litter from our beach and let us return Crosby beach to wind surfers and sailors again. I consider them to be a blot on the landscape. Also people are being put at risk as Crosby has never been a safe place to swim due to the tides and people are going out too far to look at the more distant ones and are getting cut off by the tide. I also feel that the cost involved far outwieghs any percieved benefit

STUART FARQUHAR
i think the statues should stay on the crosby beach with the outer ones being marked or illuminated so the crosby sea anglers can safely use their boats!

marg-brand@ntlworld.com
I think they should stay to allow people who not yet visited the site to see them especially in Winter.

Simon
I find them fascinating especially with the changing tides the different views and from afar the beach looks like it's populated like thge england of yesteryear

Kathy Hamlin
After 18 years of living in Australia and being used to having access to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world , I never thought Crosby beach could appeal to me. Was I wrong ! It was only the biting April winds which prevented me from staying too long !The statues are amazing and enhance the landscape. I also think Art should be accessible to everyone and this concept achieves this.Please, please,let them stay.I would love to see them again and more importantly , on Merseyside.

Mike Faulkner
Of course they should stay. What a wonderful advertisment for Merseyside to have such a original exhibition.

Sue Peters - Bournemouth
Please let them say and not go to the States. They are unique and a great attraction. It's so peaceful there and I enjoyed seeing them when I visited Merseyside earlier in the year.

angharrad
once again somthing that makes our city different, the council want to tear it down. we dont deserve capitol of culture........all of our culture has been teared down!

Jenny Collins
They should definately stay, they provide a reason to visit Crosby.

derek young
This seems to be one of few the things Liverpool seems to have got right. Let's hope the statues stay a bit longer

david
no they spoil the look out to see

Liz Farnell
I found this a remarkable sight when I first saw them about a year ago. I sat for ages watching the progress of the tide coming in on the figures. Please keep them there. They should stay in England, not go to the States. I doubt that I would otherwise have bothered to visit that beach, but now that I've found the peace and quiet of it, I would go back next time I'm visiting from Southampton. Liz Farnell, Eastleigh nr Southampton