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Bay underpass gets a modern day take on local history


September 22, 2021 - 1149 views

The pedestrian underpass that leads from Colwyn Bay town centre down to the waterfront is receiving a makeover in the form of local history inspired murals.  

Local graffiti artist Andy ‘Dimeone’ Birch has been commissioned as part of the National Lottery Heritage Fund project Imagine Colwyn Bay. 

Helen Jackson, Conwy County Borough Council’s Programme Coordinator, said: “It was always an aim of the Imagine project to brighten up the appearance of the underpass, it’s a key link between the town centre and the waterfront so we’re delighted that Network Rail gave the go ahead for the work.”

Artist Wendy Couling led some community art workshops with the support of Tape Community Music and Film to develop the ideas and themes for the artwork.  

Wendy said: “The young people and adults who came along to the workshops were such a talented bunch and full of ideas of what they would like to see.”

Andy said: “There have been some really great responses already.  People have been stopping to chat and share their memories of Dinosaur World and the Astra cinema.”

Helen added, "We’d like to thank our funders and everyone who has contributed their artwork and ideas to inspire this project.  If anyone would like to find out more about the local history themes that are featured I would encourage them to download the new Imagine Trail heritage app.

"The app is available to download for free from Google Play and will be coming soon to the App Store."

"More information can be found at www.imaginetrail.com and free tickets are available to the Imagine Trail celebration event at Theatr Colwyn, 10 am on the 28th September, bookable through Eventbrite.

"It’s not all about looking back, it’s such an exciting time for culture across the county with Conwy’s City of Culture 2025 bid.  Although the Imagine Colwyn Bay project is nearing an end there is more to come. Look out for sculpture installations that will be appearing courtesy of Small World Theatre, who are responsible for the ‘I am a Celebrity’ Bugs in Abergele.”