June 05, 2026 - 174 views
A colourful new mosaic artwork created by young people from Ysgol Y Gogarth has been unveiled at Llandudno railway station as part of celebrations marking 200 years of the modern railway.
The striking art installation was created by students from the Additional Learning Needs (ALN) school in partnership with local artist Mel Roberts of Mazin Mosaics, with support from teachers, staff and the Conwy Valley and North Wales Coast Community Rail Partnership (CRP).
Inspired by their journeys on the Conwy Valley Line, the history of the railway and some of North Wales’ most recognisable landmarks, the students spent 12 weeks designing and creating a series of colourful mosaic panels which will now be permanently displayed at the station.
Funded by Transport for Wales, the project gave learners the opportunity to develop new creative skills, explore design and storytelling, and work collaboratively on a piece of public art that can be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
Mel Roberts said: “Working with the pupils and staff of Ysgol Y Gogarth, and Karen (Community Rail Officer) has been a fulfilling and fun experience. From the outset, the pupils have been engaged, eager to learn and have grown in confidence in both working together and in their mosaic making skills. They should be proud, as I am, of the beautiful mosaics.”
Janine Tennant-Jones, a teacher at Ysgol Y Gogarth, said the project had provided a meaningful learning experience for pupils.
“It has provided authentic opportunities for young people to develop their creativity, confidence and collaboration skills while engaging with their local area and cynefin in a purposeful and inclusive way,” she said.
“We are incredibly proud of our learners and the legacy they have created for the wider community to enjoy at Llandudno railway station for years to come.”
The project forms part of the wider Railway 200 celebrations, commemorating two centuries since the birth of the modern railway while encouraging future generations to engage with rail travel and innovation.
Melanie Lawton, Community Rail Strategic Lead at Transport for Wales, said: “Llandudno is known as the Queen of Welsh resorts. This project with Ysgol Gogarth has connected the community to the railway in a joyous way. The artwork creates a sense of place, and for our passengers travelling at Llandudno railway station to enjoy.”
Karen Williams, Community Rail Officer for the Conwy Valley and North Wales Coast CRP, praised the pupils’ dedication throughout the project.
“Week after week, the pupils demonstrated outstanding determination and passion through their chosen artwork. They used materials and tools safely, respectfully and with great care while working together to create these wonderful pieces,” she said.
The unveiling coincides with Community Rail Week, a national celebration of the partnerships, volunteers and projects that help connect communities through Britain’s railways.
The Conwy Valley and North Wales Coast Community Rail Partnership said the project highlights the importance of inclusivity, creativity and community engagement, while helping ensure railway stations reflect the communities they serve.
