The Coldstones Cut

The Coldstones Cut

The Coldstones Cut is a monumental public artwork by Andrew Sabin, designed as a sculptural response to Coldstones Quarry near Pateley Bridge. This immersive installation consists of a labyrinth of streets and pathways, enclosed by towering stone walls that echo the scale and weight of the quarry itself.

As visitors navigate the winding paths, they encounter dramatic shifts in perspective. At certain points, the experience opens up to breathtaking panoramic views over the Yorkshire Dales, where rolling hills and vast landscapes stretch into the distance. Conversely, looking downward reveals the immense depths of the quarry, where 60-tonne trucks, appearing as tiny toys, move about far below.

This striking contrast between the expansive natural landscape and the industrial enormity of the quarry invites reflection on the relationship between human activity and the environment. Through its commanding presence and thoughtful design, The Coldstones Cut challenges viewers to engage with both the beauty and the scale of the surrounding landscape.

The Coldstones Cut Story

Coldstones Quarry sits atop Greenhow Hill as one of England’s highest and deepest quarries, though it remains hidden by its location.

In 2006, after boundary changes, planners decided to replace the simple viewing platform with something lasting that would attract visitors.

With guidance from The Henry Moore Institute, Nidderdale Visual Arts and Hanson Aggregates commissioned sculptor Andrew Sabin to design the project.

Over the next three years, the team refined the artistic vision, resolved engineering challenges, and finalized construction methodologies.

Meanwhile, public consultation revealed strong support, leading to the formation of a delivery team that included Harrogate Council and The Nidderdale Plus Partnership.

By 2009, planning permission was granted, and funding was secured from Arts Council England and the Aggregates Levy.

Construction began in March 2010, and finally, Dr. Penelope Curtis, Director of Tate Britain, officially opened The Coldstones Cut on 16th September 2010.

Funders and Factors

The development and construction of The Coldstones Cut was funded by the following bodies:-

Natural England; Aggregate Levy Sustainability Fund

National Lottery through Arts Council England – Yorkshire

Yorkshire Forward
Yorkshire Dales LEADER Programme
Renaissance Market Town Programme

Technical and Construction Work was undertaken by:-

Houseman & Falshaw Ltd
Harrogate – Building Contractors

Blue Sky Consultants
Harrogate – Structural Engineer/Lead Consultant

Michael Eyres Partnership LLP
Bradford – Quantity Surveyors