This year, Hastings town centre has welcomed a distinctive new seasonal landmark – a modernist Christmas tree structure standing 1066cm high. More than a festive installation, the tree represents a collaborative effort between local organisations invested in the town’s success – Love Hastings, Metalworx and Offerfair Self Storage.
Innovation Meets Tradition in Hastings
Love Hastings, the not-for-profit organisation responsible for many of the town centre’s essential but often unseen services, wanted a way to deliver a Christmas feature that was relevant, visually engaging and reflective of Hastings’ unique identity. The height, 1066cm, was a deliberate nod to a number deeply rooted in the town’s history.
Rather than opting for another traditional tree, Love Hastings sought something that would stand apart while still complementing other festive displays around the town. Their goal was a temporary installation designed to instigate conversation, celebrate local creativity, and draw attention back to the heart of Hastings.
Metalworx Brings the Vision to Life
For Metalworx, a St Leonards-based fabrication company established for more than 25 years, the project allowed them to act on an idea they had been considering for years. Known for their expertise in aluminium trussing and inventive structural design, Metalworx proposed a reusable, lightweight installation that would be visually impactful after dark and practical to assemble and dismantle each year.
The result is a sculptural aluminium structure that has already captured the town’s attention. In just its first ten days on display, the tree has attracted many visitors who have come specifically to see it, take photographs, and share their impressions. While any publicly funded project naturally attracts differing opinions, the overall response has been notably constructive.
Offerfair’s Support in the Project
A key part of the project’s success has been the behind-the-scenes support from Offerfair Self Storage. As one of the area’s key redevelopers of commercial property, Offerfair understands the importance of maintaining and revitalising the town’s environment. When Metalworx required dedicated space to test-build the structure and a secure location for off-season storage, Offerfair stepped in.
Given that the tree will only be installed for around 6-8 weeks each year, specialised storage is essential to ensure its longevity and safety. Offerfair provided the room needed, not only to assemble and refine the structure during its development phase but also to store it throughout the rest of the year. It is a practical partnership that demonstrates how local businesses can work together to enable civic projects benefiting the wider community.
Encouraging Conversation and Celebrating Hastings
While the tree itself is temporary, its impact may be more lasting. The installation is already prompting discussions about Hastings’ past, present and future. At a time when town centres across the UK are undergoing transformation due to changing economic and social patterns, projects like this play a key role in keeping public areas alive and engaging.
Diverse opinions are expected and even welcomed, as they reflect the vibrancy of a community that cares deeply about its town. There is space for tradition and for innovation, and this installation illustrates how both can coexist as Hastings evolves.
For further coverage and perspectives on the installation, you can read the recent Hastings Online Times article here:
hastingsonlinetimes.co.uk/arts-culture/public-arts/modernist-christmas-tree
