Iconic Preston Sign

Location – Preston

Type – Community

Status – On Tour around Preston

CGI – David Cox Architects

Preston – High-Impact Interactive Sign

We successfully tendered to produce a high-impact, interactive, moveable sign for Preston City Council to support the visitor economy. The timescales were tight and we were able to design and have the sign manufactured within 9 weeks. We have an in-depth understanding of Preston and its heritage and looked to reflect that in the design. The iconic sign is made of steel, coated in the Preston blue, with rope weaved through it to symbolise the rich history of the textile industry in Preston.

Since it’s unveiling in March 2022, the sign has been moving location around the City, being located in Avenham and Miller Park, Winckley Square, the Flag Market, UCLan and more.

The sign, which Mayor of Preston, Councillor Javed Iqbal called “a piece of art Preston will be proud of for many years to come”, comes from a partnership between Preston City Council, Preston’s David Cox Architects and Lancashire firm Steeleson Fabrications.

Helen Knott, Associate from David Cox Architects said:

“It has been a privilege to work alongside Preston City Council and Steeleson Fabrications on this highly unique project. The design concept has been influenced by Preston’s textile heritage and the large threads represent the cotton weaving process.

“Procuring a piece of public art for everyone to enjoy signals a growing confidence in our city and delivery has been a real team effort on a tight programme. We very much hope it becomes a fun photo opportunity for locals and visitors alike.”

Commissioned as part of the city’s Welcome Back Fund action plan, the Preston sign has been funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through the Department for Communities and Local Government.

Below are a selection of photos of the sign as installed, CGI visuals and concept/working models.