Cumbernauld's totem treasure saved for posterity

Cumbernauld Community Development Trust lobbied Historic Environment Scotland, in the hope of making the iconic sculpture a C Listed Building.

The wish has been granted and the status has now been duly conferred on the striking Glenhove Road- based artwork that is of course the handiwork of the late Brian Miller.

CCDT chairman Adam Smith said: “I am delighted. Despite so many being lost in recent years, this listing will ensure the preservation of this iconic artwork.

“We will be approaching North Lanarkshire Council to ensure that the area surrounding the totem as well as the totem itself, is cleaned up and maintained.”

Brian’s widow Mae of said: “This is exciting news, The family is delighted that Brian’s totem pole has been recognised as an important piece of work, and along with the recent renovation of ‘The Doves’ mural it is reminding everyone how integral Brian’s work was to the shaping of Cumbernauld, it is sad that so much of his work has been lost or covered up over the years.”

Meanwhile Diane Watters who works Historic Environment Scotland but grew up in Cumbernauld said: “This is great news. Innovative art works like the now-listed totem pole, belie claims that Scotland’s post-war Modernist built environments were sterile and drab.

“Cumbernauld New Town was far from that.”