The plans for £2.25 million improvement to Purley town centre to go on display later this month include a proposal for seven bollards designed by high-profile artist Antony Gormley, each at the cost of £2,000.

Gormley, 59, is best known for his giant steel structure, the Angel of the North, alongside the Great North Road near Gateshead.

The Gormleys suggested for a new square in Purley are a good deal more modest in scale. And, it might be said, more modest in artistic merit, also.

They apparently comprise no more than blocks of wood carved in a variety of shapes.

The exhibition of the plans is to be held on June 18-19 at 5 Purley Parade, High Street (10am to 6pm on Friday, 10am ro 3.30pm on Saturday).

According to the Purley Mail website, “Representatives of local residents and traders associations who were consulted about the scheme are interested to see how the plans have developed.

“The basic concept is to develop the area in the High Street currently occupied by recycling bins into an open area suitable for events such as Farmers Markets and community gatherings.”

What do you think of the Antony Gormley bollards? Money well spent, or the world’s most expensive canine lavatories? Have you ideas that could help improve Purley High Street? Post your comments below.