MIXED MURAL: Edgeware campaigners appalled by new mural design

Edgware residents have expressed mixed responses to the new mural on Station Road, which was installed by Barnet Council last month.

The mural project was backed by representatives from Transport for London and developers Ballymore, the same organizations proposing to build 25 tower blocks in Edgware, where the bus garage currently stands.

Edgware spokeswoman Anuta Zack said that for a heritage project that is supposed to celebrate 100 years of Edgware tube station and its development as a suburb of London, the mural makes a remarkable reference to the culture of the area.

She said: “There are a lot of things that could have been celebrated as part of the centenary art project. And yet we have a somewhat ironic reminder that the very reason Edgware grew as a suburb is because people wanted to escape the pollution of the city.”

A Barnet Council spokesman said: “The mural, designed by artist Holly Graham, was designed in collaboration with input from the local community. Seventy-five local young people took part in workshops organized by the FUSE Youth group, alongside pupils from Edgware Primary School and Northgate School, as well as an artist-facilitated presentation session.

“Designed by UP Projects, it was commissioned by Barnet Council as part of the commemorative program honoring 100 years of Station Road. The design itself emerged from the collaboration between the artist and the local community.

“We want to make sure that everyone who wants to can get involved and help shape the future of Edgware town centre.

“We hope residents will enjoy the mural; it has already started so many conversations.”

Photo credit: Barnet Council and Thierry Bal