York-based Art of Protest has begun designing the mural following engagement with residents and in schools, with a date for its unveiling set for Saturday, March 22.
Art of Protest Creative Director Jeff Clark said their ambition was to create a mural that residents would be proud of after taking their views on board.
York Council finance spokesperson Cllr Katie Lomas said the mural was the latest in a series of exciting improvements to Front Street as part of ongoing regeneration works.
The unveiling of the mural and eight new benches in the street come as part of the second phase of works to Front Street which began in October.
Changes have included the removal of 90 of the 131 bollards which provoked a backlash from locals after they were installed in January 2023.
Works are being funded by £570,000 of UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) cash, with the council aiming to spend it all before the Government can claw it back after March.
Art of Protest saw off competition from across the globe to win the commission from the council to design and paint the mural.
The council received 11 bids to take on the project costing £38,000.
Art of Protest’s engagement efforts with the community has seen 17 community sessions held in partnership with local hubs and four schools.
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The company has also put on a Street Art Academy for residents to learn new skills.
People will have the chance to meet with local artists and the Art of Protest team when the mural is unveiled next month.
An impression showing how the regeneration of Acomb Front Street could look. Picture: York Council
The event is set to begin at the mural, on the corner of Front Street and Cross Street, at 4pm.
It will continue at Bluebird Bakery’s Rise venue from 6pm, with all welcome.
Pop-up spray painting, a community art exhibition and DJ set are all planned as part of the event.
Art of Protest Creative Director Mr Clark said their engagement efforts had aimed to win over locals so the final work would create a true sense of place.
The creative director said: “In the last month we have heard many voices about what they want to see and feel down Front Street.
“The mural designs are currently being created, shaped by the feedback and the final design will be agreed with the community steering group.
“It has been a privilege to work in our home town and our ambition is to create a design Acomb residents will be proud of.”
Council Finance Executive Member Cllr Lomas said the unveiling of the mural would be a fantastic opportunity to bring people together to celebrate the spirit of Acomb.
The executive member said: “The area has seen a range of improvements to create a more people friendly space for activities and events as well as a more accessible and welcoming space with new planting, seating and upgraded accessible parking and toilet facilities.
“The local community has been at the heart of this project, I am looking forward to seeing the final designs and would like to thank everybody for their patience as work is ongoing in the area.”
Planters, wider crossings and new signage and branding are all a part of the Front Street regeneration project which first began in spring 2023.
The latest works include resurfacing the School Street Blue Badge parking area to create a single accessible bay and the installation of a power supply to help run events.
