A striking new mural has transformed Moorland Park as part of a wider investment programme linked to the new Willows High development.
Delivered by Morgan Sindall Construction - the contractor that has built the new school and as part of Community Wellbeing Benefits linked to the scheme, the project is helping to create a more welcoming, attractive and accessible space for local residents while strengthening connections between Willows High and the wider community. The mural forms part of a package of enhancements to the park, which also include upgraded entrances, improved pathways, new landscaping and additional benches.
The eye-catching artwork, created by Canton-based artist Peaceful Progress, celebrates the voices, experiences and aspirations of local young people. Pupils from Willows High and Moorland Primary School played a central role in shaping the mural. Working alongside Cardiff Curriculum, Cardiff University, Glamorgan Archives, Cardiff Council's Active Travel Team and South Wales Police, learners took part in a series of workshops exploring the history of Moorland Park, its importance to the community and opportunities for future improvement.
Their ideas and experiences informed the final artwork, ensuring the mural reflects both the character of the area and the people who use it.
A key part of the project's success was the support of Louise, founder of Keep Splott Tidy. Working closely with project partners, Louise helped secure the necessary permissions and approvals and contributed ideas throughout the development of the scheme. Her involvement was instrumental in bringing the artwork to life, ensuring the community's vision could be realised and creating a lasting improvement to a well-used local space.
As the new Willows High prepares to open its new state-of-the-art new campus in November, the improvements are designed to encourage greater use of the park, support active travel for learners and create a safer, more vibrant environment for local people.
Cardiff Councilβs Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Sarah Merry said;
The new Willows High is about much more than delivering a fantastic new school building. Through Community Wellbeing Benefits, we are also investing in local spaces and projects that will have a positive impact on the surrounding community.
The improvements at Moorland Park, have been shaped by local young people and will help create a safer, greener and more welcoming space for residents, families and learners for years to come.
The investment reflects a commitment to ensuring the benefits of the new school extend beyond the school gates, helping to strengthen connections between the school and the area it serves, whilst leaving a lasting legacy.
Georgie Davies, Social Value Advisor from Morgan Sindall said:
For Morgan Sindall Construction, projects like this go way beyond installing a new building. They provide an opportunity to create a lasting positive impact within the communities where we work. By supporting local young people to influence the spaces around them, we are helping to encourage community pride and leave a meaningful social value legacy that will continue to benefit residents long after construction works have been completed. The project reflects our commitment to working collaboratively with local partners and empowering communities to shape their own future.
Community Wellbeing Benefits deliver social, environmental and economic value in communities connected to major developments.
