Banstead Park in Harehills has been revitalized with the unveiling of a vibrant new mural, a celebration of both the local community and the natural world.
This artistic addition, created by the acclaimed street artist HazardOne www.hazardone.co.uk, enhances the park’s appeal and stands as part of a larger initiative to make public spaces more secure and inviting, particularly for women and girls. The mural features an array of nature and wildlife themes, interwoven with elements that reflect the diversity and spirit of the Harehills community.
Its creation was driven by a collaboration between local youths and the Leeds Charity Getaway Girls. Girls of various ages, from primary school students to teenagers, contributed their ideas and visions for what they wanted to see in their park. This inclusive process not only empowered the participants but also ensured that the mural resonated with the voices and experiences of those who use the park most.
In addition to the mural, Banstead Park is undergoing several other enhancements aimed at improving safety and functionality. In the coming months, updated lighting will be installed throughout the park to brighten pathways and enhance visibility. The landscaping at the Roundhay Road end of the park is being redesigned, replacing larger shrubs with colorful spring and summer flowers to open up sightlines and make the space feel more welcoming.
Further developments include the addition of new welcoming signage at park entrances, refurbishing the multi-use games area with new markings and an additional entrance, and creating a new social seating area. These improvements are designed not only to beautify the park but also to create a more engaging and user-friendly environment.
Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space said:
“This is an exciting scheme to improve one of our busiest community parks and make it more welcoming for everyone, especially local women and girls. The new flowers will give a burst of colour through spring and summer and the mural will do the same all year round.
“Improving the entrance will make the park look more welcoming from the main road and the upgrade of the lighting should ensure the busy walking route from one side of the park to the other can be used year-round.
“The park will look smarter with new seating and updates to the multi-use games area, which will support a range of sports including basketball, football and now also netball. I would like to thank the girls in the area for their contribution to this excellent project which will result in lasting improvements to the park.”
Councillor Mary Harland, Leeds City Council’s executive member for communities, customer service and community safety said:
“Everyone in Leeds should feel welcome and safe in our parks, and it’s great to see this project taking the steps to make that a reality in Banstead Park. The design of the mural and the improvements all come from ideas from women and girls in the local community and they’ve been brilliant in bringing the park to life.”
Street artist Harriet Wood, HazardOne said:
“It’s been great working with Getaway Girls and the Women and Girls Alliance Leeds for this Leeds City Council project in Banstead Park. Street art is such an impactful way of transforming and brightening up spaces and it’s been such a fun project to work alongside people from the Harehills community.
“The design is based on what the young women and girls from the community wanted to see in their public spaces. As a Yorkshire lass it’s always so rewarding to be part of projects at home that make community spaces more welcoming, inviting and colourful!”
This project not only enhances the aesthetic and functional aspects of Banstead Park but also symbolizes a commitment to community engagement and the creation of safe, inclusive public spaces. The mural, featuring bright colors and a design focused on community, acts as a highlight of the park’s revitalization, welcoming residents and visitors to enjoy their local park.
The project is a collaborative effort between Leeds City Council and the Women and Girls Alliance Leeds, with funding provided by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. This fund is managed locally by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.
