Paul Hogarth of Knight Frank examines the Ebbsfleet Landmark – an iconic and controversial symbol that will be as tall as Nelson’s Column and transform the Kent skyline.

If there’s one thing that divides public opinion, it’s art. While some would see Tracy Emin’s renowned ‘bed’ creation as nothing but a stomach-churning mess, others see it as a work of truth, highlighting fundamental issues in the artist’s life. But it’s not the Turner Prize that’s got everyone talking about art at the moment, it’s the public sculpture which is set to be Kent’s new landmark, visible from road, rail and air, located on a hilltop in Ebbsfleet.

For those who aren’t aware, the five shortlisted entries for the Ebbsfleet Landmark include, in no particular order; a huge white horse – 33 times the size of a normal horse; a tower of stacked cubes; a ‘nest’ of latticework; a wing and disc; and a craggy ‘recycled mountain’ with a house on top.

These shortlisted entries, the winner of which will be announced later this year, have already divided opinion. While several have pointed to the fact that the horse is the natural choice with its symbolic connection to the Kent coat of arms, others are not so keen, saying it ‘lacks imagination’.

Whatever the final choice, Ebbsfleet’s Landmark won’t please everyone, but, like the Angel of the North, I think people will grow to love it. In just 10 years the Angel has become a firm symbol of the North East, but it wasn’t always like this – it was shrouded in negative publicity from local press and residents who largely opposed it. That quickly changed, and this landmark piece of architecture is now a tourist attraction thoroughly embraced by locals.

There are lots of other examples of this – take the Eiffel Tower which, before its inception, drew immense opposition from big names in literature and the arts who protested against the ‘monstrous’ sculpture. Now it is a renowned world monument, visited by more than six million people a year. I personally think it will be fantastic for Kent to have a piece of art which will get the nation talking and draw visitors from far and wide.

Paul Hogarth is Partner and head of new homes sales and marketing in the South East at Knight Frank. To contact his residential development team call 01483 564 660.