A new mural shaped by local young people has been completed at Moorland Park in Cardiff as part of a wider programme of investment associated with the new Willows High development.
The artwork, by Canton-based artist Peaceful Progress, celebrates the voices, experiences and aspirations of local young people. Pupils from Willows High and Moorland Primary School played a central role in shaping it, taking part in a series of workshops that explored the history of Moorland Park, its importance to the community and opportunities for future improvement.
The workshops were run with Cardiff Curriculum, Cardiff University, Glamorgan Archives, Cardiff Council’s Active Travel Team and South Wales Police, and the pupils’ ideas and experiences informed the final design.
The mural was delivered by Morgan Sindall Construction, the contractor that built the new school, as part of Community Wellbeing Benefits linked to the scheme. It is one of a package of improvements to the park, which also include upgraded entrances, improved pathways, new landscaping and additional benches.
Louise, founder of Keep Splott Tidy, worked closely with the project partners, helping to secure the necessary permissions and approvals and contributing ideas throughout the development of the scheme.
Willows High is preparing to open its new campus in November, and the park improvements are designed to encourage greater use of the park, support active travel for learners and create a safer, more vibrant environment for local people.
Cardiff Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Sarah Merry, said: “The new Willows High is about much more than delivering a fantastic new school building. Through Community Wellbeing Benefits, we are also investing in local spaces and projects that will have a positive impact on the surrounding community.
“The improvements at Moorland Park, have been shaped by local young people and will help create a safer, greener and more welcoming space for residents, families and learners for years to come.
“The investment reflects a commitment to ensuring the benefits of the new school extend beyond the school gates, helping to strengthen connections between the school and the area it serves, whilst leaving a lasting legacy.”
Georgie Davies, Social Value Advisor from Morgan Sindall, said: “For Morgan Sindall Construction, projects like this go way beyond installing a new building. They provide an opportunity to create a lasting positive impact within the communities where we work. By supporting local young people to influence the spaces around them, we are helping to encourage community pride and leave a meaningful social value legacy that will continue to benefit residents long after construction works have been completed. The project reflects our commitment to working collaboratively with local partners and empowering communities to shape their own future.”
