Old Kent Road project scoops Planning Award

The project titled ‘A Home from Home’ won for its outstanding contribution to community engagement and urban renewal.

This recognition underscores Southwark Council’s commitment to creating inclusive and culturally rich public spaces across the borough.

Completed last autumn, the new mural has been painted on both sides of the railway bridge that crosses the road at roughly the point where Southwark meets Lewisham. It transforms a previously unloved piece of transport infrastructure into a striking and distinctive gateway to Old Kent Road.

The bold and lively design, which beautifully reflects the cultural diversity of the local area, features emblems inspired by fruit labels representing significant community hubs, places of worship and local businesses – places that serve as a “home from home” for many residents.

Key to the project’s success

Key to the project’s success was the extensive community-led co-design.

Dozens of local people, businesses and organisations were actively involved in shaping the artwork, demonstrating a model of good practice in community engagement.

The project involved:

This initiative, part-funded by the Government’s Future High Streets Fund, not only enhances the physical environment but also strengthens links between people and communities by celebrating their shared spaces and histories.