News

Local artists, volunteers, organisations and businesses came together between 15 and 19 July 2024 to support a community mural project to transform two underpasses under the Plough Roundabout in Hemel Hempstead into a vibrant space for pedestrians to walk through.

We worked with Hertfordshire County Council, local artist Anna Schofield and Dacorum Services for Young People (SfYP) on the project to improve the underpasses.

Anna worked with local young people to design the mural, and more than 15 artists from Dacorum Creatives and volunteers helped bring it to life. Anna said: "The idea behind this project was to create a welcoming, safe, happy and calm space for people to walk through and enjoy." 

Anna worked with Bethany, a young person from SfYP, on an abstract design using colours chosen to promote wellbeing, which they painted along with the other artists.

Sally Abrahamson, Area Team Project Officer for SfYP, said: “The subways look so fresh, vibrant and positive. Lovely to see our young people helping out for this community art project.”

Participants were encouraged by the positive response to the mural, with those passing through describing it as "uplifting", "colourful" and "cheerful". One participant said: “I felt honoured to be part of the creative team that is brightening up the subway underpass. In a space that can be intimidating for some people, it's comforting to know I helped create a safer feeling and enlightening environment for the community.” 

Councillor Sheron Wilkie, our Portfolio Holder for Place, said: “I would like to thank all of those involved in this wonderful project to create a beautiful and joyful artwork. The outcome helps improve the local environment for residents and visitors to Hemel Hempstead and helps deliver on our vision for a vibrant, accessible and safe town centre.”