Network Rail is hoping that a new art mural will help to prevent vandalism and trespass in South Wigston, near Leicester.
Katharine Wright from the Leicestershire Craft Centre is the mural's artist, and has worked with volunteers from Network Rail, East Midlands Railway, CrossCountry, Leicestershire County Council, Oadby and Wigston Borough Council, Wigston Academy, South Wigston High School, Glen Hills Primary School and Holmes Court and Holmes House care home. to create the mural on South Wigston station's bridge.
The area has seen a significant amount of trespass and vandalism. Research suggests that people are less likely to vandalise things created by local people which have meaning for them.
The community-led mural project aims to improve wellbeing for participants and passengers, and to improve the image of the station.
This artwork offers meaning to local people by using wayfinding, local landmarks and local history, while also referencing sustainable travel and nature.
Katharine Wright, Owner of Leicestershire Craft Centre, said: “It's been an absolute pleasure visiting local schools to gather artwork for the bridge mural. All the students worked hard and tackled the brief with great enthusiasm to produce brilliant drawings and lettering to reflect their local community.
“I feel very privileged to have been given the opportunity to put them all together and reproduce the artwork on the bridge for everyone to enjoy, hopefully for years to come. It's also been great fun working with the fantastic volunteers, and schoolchildren who came to help paint the design over the last fortnight.”
Oadby and Wigston borough councillor Carl Walter, who represents the South Wigston ward, said: “Extensive research supports the idea that people are less likely to vandalise something within their local community if it has been created by local individuals and holds personal significance to them. This art mural truly reflects the spirit and significance of our community, incorporating elements of wayfinding, local landmarks, and the rich history of our area. Additionally, it remains rooted in the values of our deep connection to nature.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to Network Rail, the Leicestershire Craft Centre, and all the community groups and individuals who have contributed their time, skills, and enthusiasm to bring this vision to life. It is through such collaborative efforts that we can foster a sense of pride and ownership within our community while promoting a safe and inviting environment for all.”
Steve Hopkinson, Network Rail's Operations Director in the East Midlands, cut the ribbon to unveil the mural today (Monday 19 June), and said: “It has been brilliant to see members of the community come together for this project, we know the benefits art murals can bring and South Wigston station looks much better with a splash of colour.
“I'd like to thank everyone who has been involved in this fantastic project and I hope that the community enjoys the mural as much as we have enjoyed creating it.”
Elisha Allen, Network Rail's Community Safety Manager in the East Midlands, said: “It's really great to see members of the local community coming together to produce some fantastic artwork to improve the look of the local area.
“We want South Wigston's railway infrastructure to be a clean and welcoming environment for our passengers and residents living alongside the railway. We are hoping the new artwork will inspire people to take pride in the area and continue to do so for years to come.”
Kaye Robinson, Community Engagement Manager for EMR said: “The mural has been a great collaborative project, each community volunteer has contributed to brightening up South Wigston station and helped create a more colourful and interesting space for everyone who uses it.
“Railways have always played a vital role within local communities, and they become better gateways when communities are engaged in making them more welcoming for customers and visitors.”
Clare Shaw, CrossCountry's Regional Customer Service Manager for the East Midlands & East Anglia, said: “Having the chance to work hand-in-hand with local groups on beautifying the bridge has been so rewarding, and brings us closer to the communities served by CrossCountry. I hope local people and visitors to South Wigston enjoy the bridge's new look, and that it helps to alleviate the issues around antisocial behaviour that we've been seeing in the area recently.”
