Graffiti hotspot in Newark transformed by school children from Barnby Road Academy, supported by Newark and Sherwood District Council
School pupils have been getting creative by helping to transform a graffiti hotspot with bright and colourful works of art.
Over the course of two days, groups of Year 4 students from Barnby Road Academy worked with iMAGESKOOL artists James and Luke to give the Barnby Road bridge underpass, along the Sustrans track, a much-needed makeover.
The children put their heads to brainstorm ideas including zombies and unicorns, but chose a bright and blue underwater design for one side of the underpass and a sprawling, green forest scene for the other.
Newark and Sherwood District Council’s portfolio holder for public protection and community relations, Paul Taylor, said: “The new artwork looks absolutely fantastic, and it was really wonderful to see the children so enthusiastic about the project and getting to put their own creative stamp on their school’s local area.
“It really is so important for young people to get involved with their local community, and not only that but the designs the children chose really showcase some of the key messages we are focusing on, the importance of improving the health of our rivers and oceans and tackling wildlife crime.”
This bridge, along with the Clay Lane bridge, were last given some attention by Barnby Road pupils in 2021 after the site was reported as a hot spot for criminal activity and residents expressed concern.
Mr Taylor added: “This bridge had previously been given a similar make-over by students but unfortunately that work was selfishly vandalised and as such we have organised this project to once again give students the chance to have a creative and positive impact on their community.
“I hope they feel proud whenever they walk past and see their work.
“I encourage residents to take a look if they are in in the area and see the fantastic artwork that’s been created.”
The district council regularly work on similar projects similar with local children and young people to encourage changes in attitude and behaviour change, with the aim of reducing anti-social behaviour and encouraging community involvement.
This extends into water and fire safety events, engaging with schools and educating young people about wildlife crime.
Jane Buxton, chair of Balderton Parish Council, added: “The students and local artists have done such a brilliant job on the artwork, it adds such a fresh and positive feel to the area.
“I hope it brightens up people’s day when they walk along the track.
“We want residents to feel proud of the area they live in and getting children involved in such a positive community project is a really lovely opportunity to help us achieve that, even from a young age.”
The project was made possible through Safer Streets funding, which is aimed at tackling anti-social behaviour, neighbourhood crime, and violence against women and girls across the county.
In total more than £333,000 will be spent across the North Nottinghamshire Community Safety Partnership area, which also includes Bassetlaw District Council.
