Painted utility boxes bring colour and conversation to Mumbles
Ten new designs across the ward
The initiative, commissioned by Team Mumbles councillors Francesca O’Brien and Will Thomas and delivered by Swansea‑based artists Fresh Creative Co., follows on from a first batch of murals in Newton that proved hugely popular with residents.
Cllr Francesca O’Brien said the project had been shaped by community feedback:
“Since we were elected to Mumbles Ward in 2022, it’s something we wanted to continue. Given the positive feedback we received on the first batch, we knew using our budget towards another ten boxes and designs would be welcomed. We’ve tried to cover the whole ward, and residents have loved seeing them ‘pop up’ and being designed by the artist. Will and I have enjoyed coming up with ideas, including Cinders nightclub, local sports clubs, wildlife and more.”
Cllr Will Thomas added:
“In our latest batch of public artworks we’ve added some boxes with a nod to the village’s history that will hopefully spark fond memories and conversation for both locals and visitors.”
Local landmarks and memories
The new designs include references to much‑loved community touchstones such as Cinders nightclub, local wildlife, and sports clubs. One of the first to be unveiled is on Higher Lane in Langland, with more set to appear in the coming weeks.
On social media, Cllr O’Brien teased:
“👀 Next batch of boxes are primed and ready to be painted. Incoming 10 new ones… Watch this space. One has already appeared on Higher Lane 🙌”
Part of a city‑wide movement
The Mumbles project is part of a wider wave of street art on utility boxes across Swansea and beyond, with Fresh Creative Co. also delivering designs in Sketty, Mayals, Sandfields, Clydach, Dunvant, Killay and Pontardawe.
Themes range from daffodils and acorns to Swansea City FC legends, local industry, and tributes to miners and community history. In Pontardawe, recent boxes have celebrated the town’s folk festival, twinning links with Locminé, and even the old bridge guarded by a Welsh dragon2.
Fresh Creative Co. says the aim is to “uplift and engage” communities, reduce vandalism, and bring colour to everyday spaces.
A painted utility box in Clydach pays tribute to the area’s industrial heritage with a striking image of an iron worker.Swansea City legends Terry Medwin and Cliff Jones are honoured in this Sandfields mural, recalling the Vetch Field days.Twin murals in Mayals feature bright daffodils and the village name in bold script, bringing colour to the streetscape.The iconic Oriental Bridge at Clyne Gardens is celebrated in this colourful mural on a utility box in Clyne.An artist from Fresh Creative Co. at work painting a new mural on a utility box as part of Swansea’s street art project.Community pride
The murals have already become talking points, with residents stopping to take photos and share memories. Councillors say they hope the initiative will continue to grow, adding character to streets while celebrating Mumbles’ unique identity.
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