Canterbury City Council is launching a public art initiative to transform a deteriorating pedestrian tunnel that has been repeatedly targeted by vandals and graffiti artists. The Hackington Place Tunnel on St Stephens Walkway, measuring 17.5 meters in length, will undergo a complete artistic makeover through a commissioned project aimed at improving both public safety perceptions and community pride in the structure.
The selected artist or artistic collective will receive an $8,000 fee covering all aspects of the project, including materials, community engagement activities, and installation work. Canterbury City Council's Culture Development Officer will provide ongoing support throughout the creative process to ensure the project's success. The commission specifically seeks to recruit artists who live, work, or study in east Kent, prioritizing local talent and community connections.
Community involvement forms a central component of the artistic vision, with the chosen creators expected to collaborate closely with area residents, youth organizations, schools, and other local groups. This collaborative approach aims to ensure the final design authentically reflects the identity and aspirations of the surrounding neighborhood. The council emphasizes that the artwork should serve as a meaningful representation of the community's character rather than an imposed external vision.
The tunnel, which is owned and maintained by Network Rail, has recently experienced a surge in vandalism and unauthorized graffiti, prompting the council to take proactive measures. The deteriorating condition of the pedestrian walkway has raised concerns about public safety and the overall appearance of this important community infrastructure. Officials hope the new artwork will not only beautify the space but also discourage future vandalism by demonstrating the community's investment in the area.
Interested artists have until midnight on Monday, October 13, to submit their applications through the Canterbury City Council website, where the complete commission brief is also available. The ambitious timeline calls for the artwork to be fully completed during the week beginning Monday, December 22, giving the selected artist approximately ten weeks to execute their vision from selection to installation.
Councillor Connie Nolan, Cabinet Member for Community Engagement, Safety and Enforcement, expressed enthusiasm about the collaborative effort with Network Rail to rejuvenate the neglected space. "Sadly, Hackington Place Tunnel has been the target of a spate of graffiti in recent weeks, so we're really pleased to be working with Network Rail to give this space a refresh," Nolan stated. She emphasized the dual purpose of the initiative, noting that the council hopes the new art commission will both enhance the area's visual appeal and send a clear message that this location is a valued part of Canterbury, not a canvas for destructive vandalism.
The project represents a broader trend of using public art to address urban decay and antisocial behavior while simultaneously celebrating local culture and creativity. By investing in professional artistic intervention, Canterbury officials aim to transform a problem area into a source of community pride and a showcase for regional artistic talent.
