Damien Hirst housing scheme given approval

A supermarket filled with livestock suspended in gel. Homes bedecked in coloured spots. Playgrounds covered in crystal skulls. No, we've not been dabbling in substances - we're just imaging what Damien Hirst's housing scheme is going to look like.

The artist's planned development of 750 homes, playgrounds, shops, office buildings, a school and a health center is set be built outside North Devonshire town of Ilfracombe. First tabled in 2012, the 'Southern Extension' project was finally given the green light this week by the district council’s planning committee.

Undoubtedly set to draw on Hirst's iconic style and flair, the buildings will take advantage of the latest renewable and efficient energy technologies, including rooftop wind turbines, photovoltaic solar panels and insulation.

The influence of Hirst can already be felt in the small town of Ilfracombe: in addition to owning a studio, restaurant and several other properties in the area, Verity - the artist's 67-foot-tall bronze statue of a pregnant woman - stands in the town's harbour.

As to whether the Southern Extension will follow in the bold footsteps of Verity is yet to be seen - but locals have been reassured that the development will look to encourage young, creative families to the area rather than catering to rich, retired Londoners looking for a second home. When development models with sharks and sheep start emerging, we'll let you know.

(Images: Rex)

[Via: ArtNet]