Last one on the 2012 Sculpture Trail loop: the Apollo Pavilion in Peterlee, a slab of brutalist concrete that’s spent most of its life dividing opinion. Victor Pasmore built it between 1963 and 1970, part sculpture, part footbridge, and the town’s never quite agreed on whether it’s a landmark or an eyesore.
It’s had a rough ride over the years, saddled with vandalism and general neglect, but a 2009 restoration brought it back from the brink, complete with a gate on the upper platform to keep the worst of the abuse at bay. Love it or hate it, it’s pure 1960s concrete confidence, and there’s not much else on the trail quite like it.
Worth a look if you’re passing through Peterlee, if only to decide which side of the argument you’re on.
Websites: Sculpture Trail Ride Google Map
