Local artists Lawrence and Arron Hosannah approached local councillors Ruby Cox and Trevor Webb with an idea for a mural on the wall alongside the steps between London Road and Alfred Street, next to Renaissance House in St Leonards.

Using local shops as an inspiration, Lawrence used archive material from Hastings Museum and Art Gallery to research images for the mural; the postcard collection was particularly helpful.

“The new mural in St Leonards, next to Alfred Street steps, celebrates life in St Leonards in all its vibrant diversity, and will hopefully lift the spirits of all who see it as they pass by, visitors, residents and shoppers alike,” says Central St Leonards ward Councillor Ruby Cox.

“It brings life and colour to what was previously an exceptionally ugly and featureless wall. Councillor Webb and I are proud to have played a part in its creation. 

“We hope it will give pleasure and enjoyment to all who see it for many years to come.”

The artists applied to Arts Council England for a grant to create a mural to brighten up London Road and were given £9,000 with additional funding of £1,000 from Hastings Borough Council (HBC). 

HBC worked with the occupants of Renaissance House, Brighton Housing Trust and Citizen’s Advice 1066 and with East Sussex Highways who arranged for the steps to be repaired to further improve the area.

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