Footbridge in High Wycombe transformed by art project

The Priory Avenue pedestrian footbridge is now adorned with public art, painted by the Friends of Wycombe Art Centre.

The project was supported by Network Rail and Buckinghamshire Council.

The artwork is part of a collaborative effort to enhance areas in and around High Wycombe railway station.

The footbridge now features some of Wycombe's most iconic images, using Wycombe Museum and HWBIDCO (the High Wycombe BID Co) as references.

Network Rail has also been busy clearing litter and shrubs from the embankments and the railway line, while community members have been tidying up Birdcage Walk.

The art is one of a series of new pieces in High Wycombe, designed as part of Opportunity Bucks – the council’s flagship programme to improve opportunities for people in Buckinghamshire.

Arif Hussain, Buckinghamshire Council’s cabinet member for communities, said: "We are thrilled to see the transformation of Priory Avenue footbridge through this wonderful community art project – led by award-winning Bucks artists, Dan 'Decreate' Wilson and Teakster, who we thank warmly for their wonderful work.

"This initiative not only beautifies the town but also fosters a sense of pride and connection among residents.

"It is a testament to the creativity and dedication of our local artists and volunteers.

"We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Network Rail and the community to enhance more areas in High Wycombe."

Fraser Pithie, Network Rail Central route’s community manager, expressed his satisfaction with the ongoing project.

He said: "It's fulfilling and very worthwhile meeting and working with our neighbours in High Wycombe.

"We have interacted with several local people and organisations, and with the leadership from Buckinghamshire Council and our support, it is wonderful to see the improvement that the volunteers and community have made at Priory Avenue footbridge.

"We are also pleased to report that progress is underway on a similar project at Birdcage Walk.

"This approach shows the significant benefit of engaging with local people, enabling them to improve their local environment.

"We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Buckinghamshire Council and the community throughout High Wycombe."

As part of Buckinghamshire Council’s Opportunity Bucks programme, Network Rail is working with the council and the community to improve Birdcage Walk underpass.

Residents are asked to keep their eyes peeled on this new project as works progress.

The initiative is a testament to the creativity and dedication of local artists and volunteers, and it is hoped that it will foster a sense of pride and connection among residents.