Visitors to Bournemouth this summer will be greeted by two new pieces of art on the seafront.

BCP Council has commissioned two local artists to revamp and improve the visitor experience around Bournemouth Pier Approach Flyover and Boscombe Land Train Garage on Undercliff Drive.

Starting this week, 16 pillars at Bournemouth’s Pier Approach Flyover, an area which sees over three million people walk through each year, will be wrapped with striking black and white vinyl murals.

Each design features elements from the surrounding beach, cliffs, gardens, and flowing landscapes of the famous Bournemouth coastline.

Artist Lauren Marina is leading the project. Much of the design was informed by fellow residents during the research stage, when Lauren asked her online audience ‘what makes Bournemouth iconic to you?’

Alongside the new vinyl murals, BCP Council has also renovated and painted the underside roof of the flyover. The works in this area are being funded as part of annual maintenance in preparation for the 2022 visitor season. The well-known AIDS memorial mural remains in place as an important part of the Pier Approach and the story of Bournemouth’s history.

Boscombe’s Land Train Garage, which was last decorated in 2007, will also receive a major refresh.

The garage’s 104-metre seafront facing side will receive a bright blend of colours and text that connects to Bournemouth’s sun, sea and sand. This design is created by local artist Ricky Also.

Ricky is well known locally, and his art can be seen in other areas of the town, including Lansdowne.

BCP Council put out a call to local artists to submit designs for these areas. In total, 20 applications were received across both projects and nine artists were shortlisted. A judging panel of councillors, council officers and students then selected the two chosen artists.

Work has begun this week and is scheduled to be completed ahead of the Easter Bank Holiday weekend.

Cllr Beverley Dunlop, portfolio holder for Culture and Vibrant Places said: “Public art is a reflection of its place and time and acts as a place marker for residents and visitors. The land garage is home to our much-loved seafront train and the underpass at Pier Approach is a gateway to our spectacular seafront.

“Over the years they have become iconic locations and I am especially pleased that we’re revitalising them by showcasing local artists. I am very much looking forward to seeing the completed artworks.”