St Paul's Alleyway Clean Up & Street Art Graffiti - Pilot Project


📅 Date: 10–26 March 2025
📍 Location: Alleyways between St Paul’s Avenue flats, Hazel Road, and Lavernock Road, Penarth
🗣️ Who we spoke to: Local residents, Stanwell School pupils, parents/carers, community members
Facilitators: Vale of Glamorgan Council Placemaking Officers, Vale Youth Team, Hurts So Good (local graffiti artists)
🙋 Type of engagement: Litter pick, on-site conversations, surveys, art workshops

The alleyways near St Paul’s Avenue were in need of improvement and often used as shortcuts to schools, shops, and GP surgeries. People said they felt unhappy about litter and avoided the route after dark.


What we did

  • A litter pick was organised on 20 March with support from the Fire Station and Vale Youth Team and Vale Placemaking Officers.
  • Spoke to residents during the activity about litter and safety concerns.
  • Ran surveys over two weeks to understand how people use the alleyway and how they feel about it.
  • Art workshops were delivered by Hurts So Good for Stanwell School Year 8 pupils.
  • Stanwell Pupils took part in the Street Art Graffiti in the alley and finished off by Hurts so Good.

💬 Comments

“The amount of litter was depressing.”

“We use this route every day for school – it needs to look better.”

“The new artwork makes the alleyway feel cared for.”

📢 Summary

A huge thank you and well done to everyone involved in transforming the alleyway between St Paul’s Avenue, Hazel Road, and Lavernock Road!

The project was led by our Creative Communities Placemaking Team after feedback from residents highlighted concerns about safety after dark and the overall appearance of the area. They brought together local partners and young people to brighten up the space with eye-catching murals inspired by Cosmeston Lakes, the coastline, and wildlife.













Special shoutout to the talented Year 8 students from Stanwell School and graffiti artists Kyle and Ceri from Hurts So Good for their incredible artwork.

See Facebook posts of each stage of the project: Full photos of art work, Artist in action and The Big Clean Up

Feedback since the work has been very positive. Residents love the new look and the message: “Keep Your Lane Clean and You Don't Have To Be Great To Start But You Have To Start To Be Great!”