Star readers asked to help name Sheffield’s New Era Square pandas

Last month, a giant panda sculpture – weighing an impressive 1,350kg – was lifted 97 metres from the ground and mounted on the rooftop of New Era Square’s core office building, overlooking the city centre ring road.

As part of the wider art installation, the main panda is being joined by two smaller pandas – one clambering up the side of a pillar and one resting on a bench.

The development team, which is headed up by managing director Jerry Cheung, are now keen for the people of Sheffield to give the new pandas names that reflect the city in some way.

“With New Era Square, our ambition has always been to deliver a true example of what modern Asia has to offer,” explained Jerry.

“Beyond that, we wanted to create an iconic destination that is unique to Sheffield. We want everyone in this great city to support and visit the public space, and also feel a sense of ownership towards it.

“So we are asking locals to help name our family of pandas and ensure they reflect a little bit of Sheffield’s special personality.

“In China, pandas symbolise determination, discipline, kindness, and steadiness – all traits Sheffield folk are known for. And as the UK’s greenest city…where else would a panda want to live!”

To suggest names for the three pandas, simply email our newsdesk, using the subject header panda name, at [email protected] by Friday, November 20.

You may want to take inspiration from the city’s two great football teams, or name the pandas in honour of a figure from Sheffield’s illustrious past.

The suggested names will then be whittled down to a shortlist which will then be voted on via our Facebook page.

If you wish, you can say which panda you would like to receive which name. If so, please label your names roof panda, pillar panda and bench panda.

Each one will be labelled with a small plaque containing its official name chosen by readers of The Star.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.