Council invites artists to breathe new life into tired city walkway
Canterbury City Council is inviting artists to apply for a new public art commission that will transform Hackington Place Tunnel on St Stephen’s Walkway in Canterbury.
The project aims to enhance the 17.5-metre pedestrian tunnel, owned and maintained by Network Rail, with a visually-engaging design to improve perceptions of safety and increase public awareness of the tunnel.
The successful artist or collective will work closely with residents, youth groups, schools and others to ensure the final design reflects the identity and aspirations of the area.
Applications are particularly encouraged from artists who live, work, or study in east Kent.
The appointed artist or collective will receive a £8,000 fee to cover their work, materials, community engagement and installation, with support from the council’s Culture Development Officer throughout the process.
Cllr Connie Nolan, Cabinet Member for Community Engagement, Safety and Enforcement, said: “Sadly Hackington Place Tunnel has been the target of a spate of graffiti in recent weeks, so we’re really pleased to be working with Network Rail to give this space a refresh.
“We hope that not only will the new art commission brighten up the area, but it will also send a clear message that this is a valued part of our city and not a canvas for vandalism.
“It’s also a brilliant opportunity to showcase talented artists, and I’m looking forward to seeing what they come up with.”
Applications close at midnight on Monday 13 October 2025.
You can read the full artist brief here and fill in the application form here.
Published: 15 September 2025