Artists put final touches to striking seaside mural
Artists are putting the final touches to a striking new mural along a coastal town’s sea defences – a powerful visual tribute to the town’s ongoing regeneration.
Led by artist and facilitator Ffion Pritchard, the project invited creatives from across Denbighshire to contribute to the Ein Rhyl/Our Rhyl campaign.
Supported by Rhyl Neighbourhood Board – an independent collective made up of residents, business owners, politicians, council officers and grassroots organisations – and Balfour Beatty, the mural aims to showcase the heart and heritage of the beloved seaside resort, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
“The response has been incredible,” said Ffion, from Bangor.
“We’ve worked with a wide range of amazing community groups and seen just how much creativity and pride exists here.
“From young people to older residents, everyone has had something valuable to share. This project has brought people together in a powerful way, allowing them to express their vision of Rhyl – what it means to them, where it’s been, and where it’s going. It’s been a joy to help guide that process.”
Trail
The mural will span up to 60 pre-cast units and be printed on durable materials such as aluminium.
Alongside the main installation, workshops with local schools, youth groups and families have helped shape a vibrant mural trail reflecting Rhyl’s past, present and future.
Craig Sparrow, Chair of Rhyl Neighbourhood Board, added: “We’re incredibly grateful for the dedication and creativity that’s gone into this project. It’s been fantastic to see the community come together, from third sector groups to individual artists, everyone has played a part.
“Projects like this show just how much talent there is in Rhyl, and how art can help tell our story in such a meaningful and lasting way. I’m really looking forward to seeing the completed mural.
“It’s going to be something we can all be proud of and will showcase the very best of Rhyl, both for residents and visitors.”
Redevelopment
Participants have included Ysgol Tir Morfa, West Rhyl Young People’s Project, Viva LGBT Youth Cymru, Brighter Futures, Willow Collective, Ysgol Bryn Hedydd, and families through workshops at the town library. The project is on course to be completed in August.
Working on behalf of Denbighshire County Council, Balfour Beatty’s redevelopment of the East Parade included removing the old promenade and sea walls, widening and raising the new promenade for improved pedestrian and cyclist access, and constructing a concrete-stepped revetment to reduce flooding risk — protecting over 600 properties in Central Rhyl.
For more information on Ein Rhyl/Our Rhyl visit www.sirddinbych.
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This is a great way to fix an ugly public realm but whose idea was it to spend all this taxpayer money building an ugly sea defense instead of one that was just as effective but respected the local community. It wouldn’t cost much to front this Berlin wall with earth and plantings, or a boardwalk or even just a green wall.