29 July 2025
On Wednesday, I visited the Winslow Close underpass in Allesley Park, Coventry with Cllr Jayne Innes and the area’s local Police Community Support Officer (PCSO). We saw the impact of recent vandalism that destroyed a much-loved wildlife mural, created by residents and commissioned by the Warwickshire Wildlife Trust.
In August 2024, local artist Michael Batchelor worked with the community to design the mural. It featured ducks, flowers, and greenery, celebrating the Sherbourne Valley’s natural beauty. The artwork brought colour and pride to the area and reflected the spirit of Allesley Park and Eastern Green. It was a symbol of collaboration, creativity, and care for the local environment.
The mural has now been painted over. That doesn’t restore what was lost. The original design meant a great deal to local people and its absence is deeply felt. The damage has sparked frustration and sadness across the community, especially among those who helped bring the mural to life.
I stand with residents in calling for its restoration. The Warwickshire Wildlife Trust is exploring options to recreate the mural. As Jordan Davies from the Trust said, “We would absolutely love to see a scenario where we can recreate the mural and give it back to a local community where it was so loved.”
Vandalism like this damages more than walls — it harms community identity and erases shared creativity. Public art plays a vital role in connecting people to place and to each other. We must protect it and stand against destructive behaviour. The Sherbourne Valley Project has already announced plans for a community repainting day, led by the original artist, with local residents invited to take part.
If you have any information about the vandalism, please contact West Midlands Police. Together, we can help restore what was lost and protect Coventry’s shared spaces, heritage, and sense of pride.
