Coldstones Quarry, situated on the peak of Greenhow Hill, is one of the highest and deepest quarries in England. Despite its huge size, the quarry is hidden from view by its location and by a protective earth bund. In 2006, following changes to the quarry boundaries, it was decided to replace a simple existing viewing platform with something special that would last the test of time and would attract visitors in perpetuity.

With advice from The Henry Moore Institute, Nidderdale Visual Arts, a local voluntary arts organisation, together with Hanson Aggregates which, at that time, operated the quarry, offered a design commission to the sculptor Andrew Sabin. The project was developed over a 3 year period during which the artistic content, the engineering and the build methodologies were resolved. Consultation demonstrated a large public support and delivery team was established that included Harrogate Borough Council alongside The Nidderdale Plus Partnership, the community hub.

Planning permission was granted in 2009 and funding was obtained from Arts Council England and from the Natural England Aggregates Levy. Construction commenced on site on a wild snowy day in March 2010 and the sculpture was officially opened by Dr. Penelope Curtis, Director of Tate Britain on 16th September 2010.