I came across this project submitted to the Institute of Place Management by the Pickle Organisation recently. It relates to telephone/cable boxes in Shirley, Solihull and an initiative to decrease graffiti. The below are lifted from the report, which is attached. It is a smashing report and I feel worthy of sharing more widely (I do have permission to share).
The project was initiated from the goals set out in Solihull Council’s economic strategy which aimed to decrease graffiti tagging and increase dwell time around Shirley. The idea of painting utility boxes seemed a successful solution for adding colour and creativity to the high street, in a straightforward way by acting upon existing street furniture.
Vision/goals
The key goals for this project were to – Reduce and deter graffiti tagging in the area- Creating a place that the community feels proud of and to add to the unique and creative identity Shirley is starting to build. – Increased representation of the community- Families often get overshadowed by the dominance of the developments that have been built for the older population. The project aimed to welcome a younger audience to Shirley by giving it a creative identity.
The long-term outcomes/achievements include, ‘It has inspired the creation of a public art strategy which will continually be built upon to sustain the creative identity of Shirley. The project has shown that there is a desire to see more public art on the streets as it enables the public to have a sense of belonging and something to be proud of.’
Thanks to Chloe Steadman @DrChloeSteadman for posting this on X and allowing me to share. A great report on a great community project.
Ken Hawkins 