A VIBRANT new mural has been unveiled in South View, celebrating local habitats and wildlife.

This art piece is the result of community collaboration involving Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, artists, and students, and has transformed a block of garages off Lyford Road. 

Creatives Rachel Davis, Fátima Pantoja and Jacky Purtill joined forces with pupils from The Vyne Community School and South View Junior School, South View Residents’ Association and residents.

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Artist Rachel Davis with children from South View Junior School who helped to paint the mural (Image: Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council) The piece was created through several workshops that took place earlier in the year.

There are plans for a natural sculpture and additional seating, funded by developers, to be installed later this year, boosting the area's biodiversity.

Cabinet member for sports, leisure and culture, Cllr Kerry Morrow, said: "I want to thank Rachel, Fátima and Jacky and everyone who helped to shape the final design and paint this beautiful new piece of art which really showcases the beautiful open space and wildlife that we are so lucky to have."

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Painting taking place at the mural produced on garages off Lyford Road (Image: Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council) Artist Rachel Davis said: “I would like to thank children from local schools, residents and other members of the South View community who have worked closely with us from day one of this fantastic project. It truly has been a project for everyone.

"Art doesn’t have to be indoors, it is everywhere around us. We have had so many people stopping to speak with us and say how wonderful it is so I would encourage anyone who has curiosity about the arts to get involved in projects like this across the borough."

Margaret Dodwell, chief operating officer at VIVID, added: "We worked with Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council to let local artists paint our garages. For VIVID, it’s all about adding a splash of creativity to our community and making our homes feel more vibrant and connected. The finished artwork looks amazing, and we hope it's enjoyed by our customers and other residents."