A group of talented artists have transformed a mundane and “uninviting” Salford underpass with a vast mural paying tribute to the city’s history.
Residents walking underneath the East Ordsall Lane Bridge will find it hard to miss the colourful new artwork brightening up the walls.
The mural, which spans nearly 320m2 of the wall surface under the bridge structure, was created by Evan Barlow, Russell Meehan and Tasha Whittle with input from workshops with community groups and local organisations.
The gifted graffiti artists have won praise for reflecting the voices, ideas and heritage of people across the neighbourhood in their ginormous commission.
Alongside the striking artwork, new lighting and a deep clean of the space have been funded to make walking and cycling through the area feel safer, more welcoming and accessible.
Given that the area is packed with a growing network of independent studios, workshops and creative spaces, it’s fitting that art should play a role in the neighbourhood’s facelift.
With Hotbed Press, Islington Mill and Paradise Works within walking distance, the area has a burgeoning reputation for its creativity.
The mural forms part of the wider Islington Active Neighbourhood Scheme, which is delivering highway improvements and has greenlit new landscaping and lighting upgrades this summer.
Councillor Hannah Robinson-Smith, Lead Member for Culture, Heritage, Sports and Leisure at Salford City Council, said the plan to illuminate the dingy underpass has been a triumph.
“This used to be a very dark and uninviting space, but working together, the three artists have created a mural that celebrates Islington’s unique heritage,” she said.
“It brings bold colour, warmth and character to the area, while showcasing the history and identity that make this part of Salford so special.
“It is wonderful that local people and organisations were able to influence what is featured. The result is fantastic – and perfectly timed as Salford is celebrating its centenary year as a city.”
As New Islington’s profile as a trendy, expressive place to live grows, Dame Sarah Storey, Active Travel Commissioner for Greater Manchester, hailed the move to bring local infrastructure up to standard.
“It is great to see the completion of the work Salford City Council has done to refurbish the underpass located within the Islington Active Neighbourhood,” she said.
“This new location for sustainable urban living is being built to ensure that residents can enjoy a quiet and peaceful neighbourhood, within a few minutes of all the amenities of the regional centre.
“It is a highly desirable place to call home and thanks to the walking, cycling and public transport connectivity, the people and businesses who live here can easily get around.
“The mural at the bridge will also add to the welcome of this newly lit walking and cycling space and I am looking forward to visiting and cycling through there when everything is complete.”
