Critics have blasted a new council-owned sculpture installed near Ashford International Station.

The 'Ashlon' sculpture in Dover Place, by artist Tim Ward, cost £55,000 and is set to be unveiled at an official ceremony on Wednesday next week.

It depicts ploughed fields with furrows in the metal, stretching towards the upper growth section represented by growing leaves on an Ash tree.

Called the Ashlon as a combination of the words Ashford and pylon, it stands eight metres high and is made of mild steel, marine grade 316 stainless steel and lighting.

Cash for the project was funded by developers contributions and the Homes and Communities Agency and council bosses say it fuses Ashford’s history and heritage with the new enterprising times ahead.

But London bus driver Kevin Page, from Singleton, says he is unimpressed with the new artwork which he sees on his daily commute.

He said: “It’s an atrocious little thing. I think it’s an outrage and an absolute waste of money. The money could be better spent to alleviate the problems of vehicles trying to get out of Station Approach.

“It was perfectly fine before. As far as I’m concerned there is no need for it.”

Meanwhile on Facebook Zoe Elizabeth Relf said: “I’m sure they could have put it in a better position. It looks silly with the industrial background. It looks like a surfboard to me.”

But council bosses have defended the structure and say it is part of the exciting future for Ashford with projects including the new Ashford College, Chapel Down brewery proposal and the Commercial Quarter in Dover Place.

Workmen began putting up the structure on Saturday.

Council leader Cllr Gerry Clarkson said the sculpture is an important piece of artwork for visitors to the town.

He said: “The new public realm works create a sense of place and embrace the town’s past and signify its future.

“The physical transformation of the site into an open area will make it more attractive to businesses seeking to move into the Commercial Quarter.

“The acquisition of International house has already proved to be a shrewd move by the council and a real draw to international businesses.”

On Facebook there has also been some support for the piece. Sarah Jane posted: “I like the contrast of the new and old industrial. It’s a nice welcome as you arrive in Ashford.”

Fraser Fairlie added: “Yes I agree, it looks good. Ashford needs to get more art like this. I’m sure some will complain about it however.”

Meanwhile Allan Norris commented: “I like it. But if it’s from the coffers we put into, it’s not what I would call essential in today’s financial climate.”