The Tontine Car Park underpass on Chalon Way West in St Helens town centre will become the site of a new public artwork designed to brighten the area and discourage vandalism through creative engagement with young people.
Commissioned by St Helens Borough Council, the project will be delivered by professional mural artist Powered by Hiphop and Kingsyze Graffiti, in partnership with youth organisations VIBE, REACH and the YMCA.
Around 80 young people have already taken part in workshops exploring mural design and celebrating the town’s heritage.
The new mural design at the Tontine Car Park underpass (Image: Wigan Council)
From these workshops, the final artwork will now be developed and brought to life with the help of participants, ensuring a sense of ownership and community pride.
Work began yesterday (Monday July 27), with the mural expected to take around three weeks to complete.
Councillor Sharon Roughley, cabinet member for stronger communities at St Helens Borough Council, said: “This is a fantastic example of how creativity can be used to address local issues while providing positive opportunities for young people.
“Rather than simply covering graffiti, we’re working with local organisations and talented artists to create something that the community can be proud of.
“The mural will help brighten a key gateway into the town centre, celebrate local identity and give young people the chance to learn new skills, express themselves creatively and leave a positive legacy for others to enjoy.”
The mural, which will display the message “Welcome to St Helens”, is designed to reflect local identity and improve the visual appeal of public space.
St Helens Council says community-led murals have been shown to discourage vandalism, strengthen local identity and encourage residents to take pride in shared community spaces.