Community project gives Spennymoor bus shelters new look

Spennymoor Town Council worked with the North East Combined Authority and Durham County Council to transforming five shelters into bright and welcoming spaces.

The project brought together local artists, schools and community groups to create vibrant installations designed to encourage greater use of public transport.

The year-long project focused on five bus shelters across the town council area, with each location selected because of its close links to nearby schools, community centres and local organisations.

Artists led workshops with pupils and community groups, collecting ideas, drawings, photographs and stories that later inspired the final designs.

A closer look at some of the art at these new bus stops in Spennymoor. (Image: Spennymoor Town Council on Facebook)

The initiative aimed to raise awareness of local public transport networks while allowing residents to create artwork reflecting their own communities.

Organisers also hope the installations will help foster civic pride and discourage anti-social behaviour involving young people directly in the creative process.

In Spennymoor, artist Nocciola the Drawer worked with pupils from Kind Street Primary School and members of the Spennymoor Youth and Community Association to develop the shelter’s design.

At Tudhope, designer Sarah Carlton collaborated with children from Tudhoe Colliery Primary School and the Tudhoe Community Centre.

Artist Jacki Stonehouse worked with pupils from Byers Green Primary School on the installation in Byers Green, while Olga Ayre partnered with Kirk Merrington Primary School and Kirk Errington Community Centre for their artwork.

The fifth shelter, in Middlestone Moor, was designed by artist Lewis Hobson with contributions from pupils at Middlestone Moor Primary School and members of the local community.

Documentary filmmakers Lonely Tower Film and Media followed the project throughout its development, capturing interviews, workshops and the installation process.

Organisers said the project has created a lasting legacy for schools and communities by promoting local heritage through art and learning.

They added that, like Spennymoor Mural Festival, the installations also create a trail linking different communities across the area.

Residents are being encouraged to look out for artwork while travelling through Spennymoor and neighbouring villages.