Farewell to Formby’s Iconic Wave Sculpture By Simon Archer

After standing proudly for 14 years, Simon Archer’s beloved Wave Sculpture at National Trust Formby has now been removed, marking the end of an era for this much-admired piece of public art.

Originally created to signify the predicted high tide point in 50 years’ time, the sculpture was a striking reminder of coastal change and environmental impact. However, as part of the dune restoration project at Formby, the area surrounding the artwork is undergoing a significant transformation, and the sculpture could not remain in place.

Despite efforts to save it, the structure had become too fragile to be moved in one piece. Over time, the harsh coastal conditions had taken their toll, and the removal process proved that its integrity had weakened beyond repair.

The National Trust’s ambitious restoration project involves removing a layer of buried building rubble from the dunes—a necessary step to restore the natural landscape. The sculpture happened to be within this zone, meaning its removal was inevitable.

Though its physical presence is now gone, the Wave Sculpture’s message about coastal change and the power of nature will remain part of Formby’s history. Many visitors and locals will remember it as a striking and thought-provoking landmark that stood as a symbol of the ever-changing coastline.

The Rolling Wave

Local sculptor Simon Archer created this rolling wave to reflect the dynamic coastline of Formby and to mark where we anticipate the high tide line will be in 2055.

Follow the fantastic Simon Archer on Facebook: