The Gateway Ely marked a significant milestone on Saturday 5 September as the first two artist-designed murals were completed on Ely's first official Free Wall for street art.
The project has empowered young people to play a leading role in reimagining a key community space.
The two young artists involved have been integral to every stage of the initiative, contributing ideas, designs and creativity as the project evolved into an immersive and expressive public art space.
Located within the underpass known as The Gateway at Ely Leisure Village, the transformed area has significantly improved the appearance of the site, creating a vibrant and welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.
The Free Wall project has been made possible through the support and collaboration of numerous partners, including Ely City Council, East Cambridgeshire District Council, Cambridgeshire County Council, Splash and Dash Creations Ltd and Ely College. Additional support was provided by respected street artists Nicola Cry and Mear, who volunteered their time and expertise to mentor and inspire the young participants.
Several local organisations also contributed equipment, resources and practical support, including Ely Tool Hire, Red Line Signs, The Hive Leisure Centre, East Cambs Police Cadets and many others who helped bring the vision to life.
The Free Wall is a designated community space where young artists can create murals, graffiti art and other forms of creative expression without requiring special permission. The initiative aims to encourage positive artistic engagement, celebrate local talent and foster community pride.
Throughout the project, councillors, community leaders, volunteers and residents have shown strong support. Councillor Alison Whelan and Councillor Christine Whelan attended the recent installation event, spending time with participants and learning more about the project's impact.
Councillor Alison Whelan, Chair of the Communities, Social Mobility and Inclusion Committee at Cambridgeshire County Council, said: "It was fantastic to visit The Gateway and see first-hand the creativity and dedication of the young people involved in this project. The completed murals have transformed the space into a vibrant and welcoming environment that the whole community can be proud of.
"The Free Wall is a wonderful opportunity for young artists to express themselves creatively, develop new skills and leave a positive mark on their city.
"Projects like this help build strong and connected communities by bringing people together, encouraging community pride and creating positive opportunities for young people to shape the places where they live."
Lis Every, Chair of the East Cambridgeshire Community Safety Partnership said: “This project is a brilliant example of what can be achieved when agencies, local organisations and the community work together with a shared vision. By transforming the Gateway into a vibrant Free Wall, we are not only improving an important public space but creating a positive environment where young people can express their creativity and feel a real sense of ownership.
“Engaging young people in positive activities, with great role models and opportunities to develop their skills, is vital in helping build confidence, community pride and safer spaces. The fantastic collaboration and support from partners, volunteers and local residents has made this project possible, and I hope it will inspire even more young people to get involved."
The completed artwork showcases the remarkable talent of local young people while demonstrating the positive impact that collaborative community projects can have on shared public spaces.
