Widnes Town Centre transformed by new street art

Halton is experiencing a transformation through bold new public art in the heart of Widnes.

Commissioned by Halton Borough Council in collaboration with local artist Tony Mallon, a striking new 53.5 metre artwork titled Winds of Change has been unveiled on New Street. The installation marks a significant milestone in the ongoing regeneration and cultural enrichment of Widnes Town Centre.

Rooted in Tony Mallon’s signature community-led approach, Winds of Change draws deeply from Widnes’ heritage and the lived experiences of its residents. Inspired by archival photography and enriched by poems, reflections and personal stories contributed by the local community, the piece forms a powerful visual tapestry, one that celebrates the voices, identity and shared history of Widnes.

Strategically positioned along New Street, a key pedestrian route linking Widnes Shopping Park to the traditional high street, the artwork transforms a functional walkway into a vibrant, story rich public space, inviting both residents and visitors to pause, reflect and connect.

Visitors are encouraged to explore Widnes’ emerging reputation as an open-air gallery. Alongside Winds of Change, the Beyond The Tracks music trail offers another engaging cultural experience. Beginning at Widnes train station, the 4.6 mile accessible walking trail features 17 stops celebrating the area’s rich musical heritage.

Designed with inclusivity at its core, the trail includes audio narration at each stop and British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation provided by Deafness Resource Centre. QR codes along the route incorporate NaviLens technology, enabling visually impaired users to easily locate and access information. The trail was introduced by global pop icon and local legend Melanie C, adding further cultural significance to the experience. Across the river in Runcorn, Halton’s artistic transformation continues. The Dukesfield Viaduct now showcases a series of striking murals created by internationally renowned artists Liam Bononi and Aylo Nomad.

These works bring to life four compelling local stories:

• Æthelflæd, 915 AD
• The Suffragettes and the 1913 Bombing
• The Pubs & Theatres of Old Runcorn
• The Shaws, 1881

Visible from passing trains, as well as along the River Mersey and Bridgewater Canal, the murals offer an immersive cultural experience whether travelling, walking or cycling through the area.

Together, these projects signal a bold new chapter for Halton, one where art, community and heritage come together to reshape public spaces and inspire civic pride.

Find out more about street art and cultural experiences in Halton here.

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