Experience Guildford's Street Art Revamp to Transform ASB Hotspot

Experience Guildford is spearheading the regeneration of Friary Passage, located at the bottom of North Street. The walkway will feature murals by prominent local street artists to create a safer, more welcoming link between the town centre and the riverside.

The passageway had become a magnet for graffiti and public avoidance due to poor lighting and crime concerns. Experience Guildford hope the visual overhaul will reclaim the space for local businesses and residents.

Funding for the initiative was secured through Your Fund Surrey, following a successful bid backed by Surrey County Councillor Catherine Houston.

Local street artist Roo, known for her work near the local Odeon cinema, is curating the project. The initiative will feature a diverse range of artistic styles and includes a unique community partnership. Roo will host design workshops with members of the local Ukrainian community. Together, they will create a bespoke, Guildford-themed installation at the riverside end of the passage.

"A Huge Relief"

The project marks the end of a lengthy administrative battle to track down the land owners and secure financial backing. "It is a relief that after a lot of time to find the owners of the passageway and to apply for the funding, the project is finally getting off the ground," said Amanda Masters, CEO of Experience Guildford. Masters also praised Guildford Borough Council for supporting the collaboration with the Ukrainian community and County Councillor Houston for sponsoring the funding bid and thanked Guildford for cleaning the passage ahead of the work starting.

Timeline • June: Refurbishment and painting scheduled to begin. • July: Official public unveiling.