Community-Led Transformation at Mumbles Skatepark
A skatepark near one of Wales's most beloved seafronts has been given a colourful makeover. Mumbles Skatepark users, their friends, relatives, and local police community support officers (PCSOs) used their artistic skills to create brightly coloured positive words and murals on the park's equipment.
The project was part of Flip the Streets, a community initiative founded by Swansea University’s Professor Lella Nouri. The initiative works with young people and wider communities to create collaboratively designed artworks that represent their beliefs and values in the physical spaces they use, often replacing graffiti and vandalism.
Murals Reflect Sea Themes and Skatepark Culture
Suggestions from two workshops were turned into two murals by Fresh Creative CIC. One features a submarine, reflecting many sea-themed ideas, while the other depicts a Mumbles spray can suggested by a user. A scooter and skateboard were also included to represent the variety of users the skatepark attracts.
Around 40 participants contributed to the finished murals. Professor Nouri said: “This was a brilliant example of what Flip the Streets is all about - bringing people together to celebrate the places that matter to them and giving young people and local communities a visible voice in shaping those spaces.”
Police and Community Collaboration
PCSOs pitched in as part of the project. Professor Nouri added: “The energy on the day was fantastic, with skaters, families, volunteers and PCSOs all contributing to something positive, colourful and lasting. These murals reflect the creativity, pride and sense of belonging that already exists in the skatepark community, and we hope they will help make the space feel even more welcoming for everyone who uses it.”
Flip the Streets Background
Flip the Streets was launched in 2023, initially funded by Race Council Cymru, and now through Swansea Council’s community safety partnership. Since then, it has helped transform areas in Clase, Gorseinon, Manselton, and the city centre.
Upcoming Art Exhibition
The team is set to host a special art exhibition to celebrate previous Flip the Streets projects. It will be held at the Volcano Theatre in High Street, Swansea, between July 17 and 24.
