A NEW work of art has caused controversy in Cowlersley.

A stone sculpture of a sofa and two armchairs has been installed by Kirklees Council on playing fields off Kinder Avenue.

The sculpture, by artist Stephen Burke, is the result of a year-long Open Art project.

During the project, Mr Burke and fellow artist Kate Genever asked people in council properties on the Cowlersley estate about where they watch sports.

Most people said on the sofa - and the artists decided to put a sofa on the pitch to bring more people outdoors.

Children were also involved in carving patterns onto a stone `rug' near the seats.

However, not all residents are pleased with the new exhibit.

Tim Mellor, of Kinder Avenue, said it does not suit its surroundings.

He said: "It's an absolute eyesore. Originally, I think there were going to be benches, which would have been OK. But this looks out of place.

"It looks like someone has dumped an old three-piece suite there."

Mr Mellor said the appearance of the sculpture had been a surprise.

"There was apparently a consultation, but nobody's asked us what we think and it's public money paying for this. If it's art, put it in a sculpture park not on a football pitch."

Keith Bengston, of nearby Howden Close, said he thought it was a waste of money.

He said: "Is this why our council tax bill has gone up again?

"It was quite surreal to find furniture in a Cowlersley football field. I thought I had woken up in a Salvador Dali picture.

"The ridiculous way some money is mismanaged leads me to believe the lunatics have finally taken over the asylum."

The Open Art project was part of a two-year scheme by Kirklees Neighbourhood Renewal and Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing to regenerate Cowlersley.

This has included renovating Cowlersley Community Centre, draining the playing fields and setting up activity projects for young people in the area.

A spokeswoman from Kirklees Neighbourhood Renewal said: "Open Art carried out consultation in the local area, but it appears that this may not have been wide-ranging.

"If this is the case, Neighbourhood Renewal apologises for the omission.

"Neighbourhood Renewal will keep an eye on the seating to ensure it is not misused in any way."