Billesley Tennis and Fitness Centre have teamed up with students from Hive College, Swanshurst School and the local community to produce a vibrant mural that celebrates diversity, inclusion and community spirit.
The mural was shaped by ideas gathered through school surveys and community questionnaires, resulting in a design that reflects local identity and shared values.
The Hive College supports young people with learning and physical disabilities, and the students were at the heart of the project.
From the initial design phase to the final brushstrokes, they were involved throughout the creative process. One of the Hive College students involved in the artwork said: “Creating the mural was so much fun.
“My favourite part was helping to spray paint it, and I think it looks great!” Professional graffiti artist David Brown, from High-Vis CIC, led the creative process.
He said: “We were so chuffed to be invited to work on the project! It was great fun to work with the team and alongside the students to create some beautiful artwork which will be enjoyed for years to come.”
Michael Watson from The Hive College, added: "The Tennis centre Mural is a fantastic project which celebrates community in a vibrant and creative platform.
“For the students it was a chance for them to "make their mark" and be a part of local history. For the Hive it was a great opportunity for us to collaborate with existing partners.
“Supporting local initiatives like this, aligns with our vision of helping to prepare and engage our young people into the wider world and more importantly helping them to immerse into the community." The project was coordinated by Yasmin Hussain, Community Engagement Officer for Birmingham Community Leisure Trust (BCLT), which operates the centre in partnership with Serco Leisure. She praised the collaborative spirit of everyone involved:
“This project has been a fantastic example of how art can unite people. We’re proud to be a part of something that not only elevates our space but supports the legacy goals of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, continuing the mission to leave a lasting, meaningful impact within local communities.
“We would like to thank Selly Oak Neighbourhood Network Scheme for funding this project, David Brown for his amazing creativity and of course all the students and members of the local community who played their part. I’d encourage people from the region to visit the centre to see the artwork for themselves.”
“I’d also like to thank Andy Craddock, who runs inclusive and adapted sports sessions across our sites. His support was instrumental, not only in shaping the mural’s message but also in helping to secure funding from the Selly Oak NNS."
The completed mural now stands as a permanent feature on the wall of Billesley Tennis and Fitness Centre. To find out more about the facility, please visit: Welcome | Billesley Tennis & Fitness Centre, Billesley Tennis and Fitness Centre is operated by BCLT, in partnership with Serco Leisure, and on behalf of Birmingham City Council. In 2024, the facility celebrated its 30-year anniversary.
