Pates Lane mural project completed

The 12,236 cross community project, funded through the Arts Council led Re-imaging Communities Programme, has provided a new shared space for local people following the removal of sectarian graffiti.

The regeneration project was led by Focus on Family with assistance from the Youth Intervention Programme.

Local businesses and residents, including children and young people worked with artist Mark Christie, and historin Dr Bob Curran, to create the new installation.

Situated close to the West Bann Development Centre, in the heart of the community, the mural showcases images of the area consisting of the Old Court House, Mary Rankin Hospital, Coleraine Harbour and the River Bann.

Roisn McDonough, Chief Executive of the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Chair of the Shared Communities Consortium, said: "Working with artist Mark Christie, the residents of Killowen have breathed new life into the area, by creating a welcoming communal space which everyone can enjoy.

"The Re-imaging Communities Programme, has provided residents and community groups with the means to reclaim their neighbourhoods and restore civic pride, which are key steps on the road to sustainable regeneration. The new artwork is a result of the community's hard work and dedication."

Brendan Patterson, Project Manager, Focus on Family added: "This project has made a significant difference to the area.

"The old sectarian slogans and negative graffiti have gone and have been replaced with artwork that is of an exceptionally high standard and can be enjoyed by all the community.

"Credit goes to the whole team and not least to the young people involved in the painting and installation."

Des Kerr, Volunteer, Youth Intervention Programme, said: "I'd like to thank the local community for all of the encouragement that they have given.

"While we were painting, so many people stopped and offered support."

The Re-imaging Communities Programme is funded through the Shared Communities Consortium, led by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, and includes the partners OFMDFM, DSD, DCAL, Community Relations Council, The Department of Justice, PSNI, SOLACE (Society of Local Authority and Chief Executives), International Fund for Ireland and NI Housing Executive.