IN PICTURES: 'Disgusting and dingy' underpass now a work of art

Local artists and community groups were invited to work on brightening up the Mill Street underpass after residents complained it was badly in need of a makeover having been overlooked for years.

The pedestrian tunnel, which leads from the town centre to Morrisons, was newly tiled before artists set to work on it.

Work on the underpass is now nearing completion and the new improved version will officially open at the end of the month

A consultation on the project was held in January with residents and shoppers making their criticisms plain.

Councillor Diane Todd, town centre regeneration leader, said: "The Mill Street underpass has suffered years of neglect and was in desperate need of refreshing.

"The works started in March and I can't believe the transformation. We have already received some extremely positive feedback."

The outdoor art gallery is based on a Now and Then theme, reflecting the history of Cannock Chase.

Large and small artworks have been painted on to the tiled walls, while improvements have been made to the steps leading to and from the pass. The handrails are also being replaced and the ceiling has been repainted.

Councillor Todd said: " We are creating an entrance to our town centre that is attractive and safe.

"I hope residents are as proud of our town centre as I am."

Pete Burt, managing director of Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust that runs leisure and arts services on behalf of the council, said they were pleased to have been involved in the project which was giving a 'real boost' to visitors to the town while putting the talents of local artists under the spotlight.

Staffordshire County Council environment leader Mark Winnington agreed.

He said: "It's vital that our town centres are vibrant and attractive places to visit, shop and spend time in. This helps to attract more businesses to the county, creates jobs and ultimately helps to grow our local economy.

"This is an important link into the town centre and complements similar work done last year on the underpass from Beecroft Road car park to the town centre. it's great to see the area being transformed and once complete will give residents, shoppers and visitors a modern, clean and bright area to enjoy."

The project is part of the Changing Places initiative looking at a wider town centre improvement programme across the district.

The work has been carried out by several artists, some contributing more than one painting, all belonging to the Chase Creative Hub.

The hub, a network of local artists, was set up by Wigan Leisure and has been involved in a number of innovative art projects in the district over the last couple of years.

The consultation in January helped to shape the design concept for the art piece, which has been aimed at reflecting the district. Both professional artists and the local community worked on the underpass.

Mr Burt said: "This is a fantastic project which has involved over 100 artists from across the district, and will help to promote the talents of local professionals and creative group members. Their artworks will provide the underpass with a much needed face lift, benefiting the whole community."