Pride in Place project helps young people transform Gainsborough underpass
A community-led project supported by Gainsborough Pride in Place is helping young people leave a lasting mark on their town.
Year 4 pupils from Benjamin Adlard Primary School helped create a vibrant new mural at the Sandsfield Lane underpass.
The colourful artwork, designed and painted by pupils working alongside artist and designer James Mayle, reflects one of the core aims of the Pride in Place programme: empowering local people to shape the places they live, strengthening community pride, and creating a more welcoming and attractive Gainsborough for everyone.
The Gainsborough Aspiration Project worked with Gainsborough Pride in Place, West Lindsey District Council and iMAGESKOOL to give pupils the chance to share their ideas, get creative and help brighten up a well-used local space.
Working closely with James throughout the project, the children helped develop the design before getting involved in bringing the mural to life. Their artwork has transformed the underpass into a bright and engaging community feature that celebrates the imagination and talent of local young people.
As well as enhancing the appearance of the route, the project has encouraged pupils to think differently about their local area and the role they can play in shaping its future.
Steve Gelder and Ben Rollett, Co-Chairs of Gainsborough Pride in Place, said: “One of the key ambitions of Gainsborough Pride in Place is to empower local people to play an active role in shaping and improving their community, and this project is a fantastic example of that in action.
“By putting young people at the heart of the project, the mural has not only transformed a well-used public space, but it’s also given pupils the opportunity to share their ideas, develop new skills and take pride in making a positive contribution to their town.
“The finished artwork is a real credit to everyone involved and demonstrates how creativity, partnership working and community spirit can come together to make a lasting difference.”
James Mayle, artist and designer, said: “It has been fantastic to work with the pupils from Benjamin Adlard Primary School on this project. They brought so much enthusiasm, creativity and energy throughout the process, and it really shows in the artwork.
“Public art has the power to transform spaces, and it has been brilliant to see the children lead the project and create something that the wider community can enjoy.”