Milton Keynes has unveiled a full-size model of the Lee statue MK, offering an early look at a new public artwork planned for Station Sq later this year.
The fibreglass version was revealed at Station Square by council leader Pete Marland and deputy leader Lauren Townsend. Created by sculptor Andy Edwards, the model will be used to help determine the final positioning of the bronze statue, with input from local residents.
Pete Marland said the statue recognises Jennie Lee’s contribution to education and public life, adding that her work “continues to influence opportunities for people across the UK and beyond”.
The project centres on Jennie Lee’s role in establishing the Open University, which is based at Walton Hall in Milton Keynes. Founded in 1969, the university has taught more than 2.3 million students worldwide and remains a significant part of the city’s education and employment landscape.
However, while Lee was instrumental in its creation, she is more accurately described as the driving political force behind the Open University rather than its sole founder.
The statue forms part of wider investment in Station Sq and the surrounding public realm. It is being funded through contributions from housing and infrastructure developers, linking it to broader regeneration activity in central Milton Keynes.
Andy Edwards, founding director of Cornovii Edwards, has been commissioned following previous high-profile public artworks, including sculptures of The Beatles in Liverpool. He will use the model to refine both the design and placement of the final piece.
Andy Edwards said the process would involve local input, with the aim of ensuring the statue reflects both Jennie Lee’s legacy and its setting in Milton Keynes.
The model will remain on display at The Open University campus during this consultation phase. Meanwhile, the Jennie Lee Archive team is working with the artist to support the project’s historical accuracy.
The final bronze statue is expected to be installed in Station Sq later this year.
Pictured above: A full-size model of the Jennie Lee statue by Andy Edwards on display at Station Square, Milton Keynes, ahead of its bronze installation later this year.
