19th June 2025
‘Section 106 agreements’ are put in place with the developers to raise money for infrastructure to support new housing developments. They are drawn up by South Oxfordshire District Council before they grant planning permission, so the developer is legally bound to deliver the infrastructure agreed. Money is collected from the developer once the planning permission is implemented and when certain points in the agreement have been met. Included in this funding is money that is restricted to be spent on certain areas, and one of these areas is Public Art.
To avoid the installation of various pieces of art that had little significance to Thame a Public Art Strategy [Word Document] was created in 2018 by a working group that included members of the community alongside Thame Town Councillors and an SODC Arts Officer. This strategy identified possible locations for Public Art, as well as aims and ambitions for how it could be used to meet needs in the community as well as something beautiful to look at.
Two projects have been completed since this time: The Peculiar Pot Trail and the Cavalier & Roundhead Route. The Public Art Working Group is having a meeting next week (Thursday 26th June at 7pm) to review progress so far and hear proposals for new projects that will take place over the next 3-5 years in Thame.
The group is always happy to welcome new members and would like to invite anyone from Thame who has an interest in public art to come forward and get involved. If you would like to be part of it please email [email protected] with your details.
