The location of a new town centre mural is now up in the air, causing delays to the community project. However, it has been confirmed that the mural will still go ahead.
Earlier this month inSwindon BID announced the town centre will be getting a new mural thanks to a collaborative effort with Artsite and SCAN (Swindon Climate Action Network).
The mural was originally intended to be displayed on the panels cordoning off Aspen House, however the council-owned building has now been sold and is no longer a suitable location.
Now inSwindon BID and Artsite trustee Sally Taylor - who will be leading the project - are working alongside Swindon Borough Council to find a new location that will ensure the longevity of the artwork.
Di Powell, inSwindon BID CEO, said: “The mural at Aspen House was always a temporary measure, until the development was sold, and we could move the hoarding to an alternative location. Progress on the sale of the site has been far quicker than we expected, and it means that we’re moving forward with finding the mural’s permanent location ahead of schedule, to ensure its longevity.
“Despite the project not going ahead at Aspen House, the mural will still happen in the town centre. inSwindon BID has invested in the project and will continue to work with Swindon Borough Council on alternative locations and we’re in regular communication with Artsite and the artists to ensure the concept works at the new location.
“The recent progress the Council has made on the development site is positive news for the town centre as it demonstrates that businesses want to invest in Swindon.”
Councillor Dale Heenan, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for the town centre, added: “I would like to thank inSwindon BID and Artsite for the tremendous amount of hard work that has gone in to this art installation.
“I have seen the proposed artwork and it looks fantastic. The former Aspen House site has had hoardings around it for a long time, and therefore it made perfect sense to host the Artsite mural.
“I am very pleased that the sale of this prominent site in the town centre has accelerated and an announcement on its future will be made shortly. It is crucial that visible progress in town centre regeneration is made and, as a result of the sale, this site is no longer suitable for the mural.
“I am very keen for the council to continue working with inSwindon BID and Artsite to find a more appropriate home as soon as possible.”
For further information about the mural visit https://swindonlink.com/8477/town-centre-to-become-a-destination-of-creativity-as-mural-gets-the-green-light/
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