In relation to the identified priorities in the Guidance & Essential criteria what will your idea achieve and who will benefit from your project?
This is a community-led project to create and then manage a stunning artwork in a disused railway tunnel on an active-travel path at Alloway. To date we have involved over 2,000 local people mainly from schools and colleges but also involving the older generation to create the artwork under the guidance of a professional muralist. We believe involving so many of our local communities will provide a sense of ownership and help safeguard the artwork created.
Please describe what you plan to do and what the money will be used for? (i.e., purchase equipment/resources)
The objective is to create, and then manage, an inclusive community project which will create a stunning art installation within the old railway tunnel at the Brig O’ Doon, Alloway, Ayr. Our objectives include the advancement of education (community involvement in the creation of art-works and heritage films on active-travel paths); community development by engaging people of all ages; school-pupils; students; youth and older groups and other interested individuals in the creative process; the advancement of the arts, heritage and culture by engaging people’s interest in art and developing their artistic abilities; and for this particular project – bringing to life through art Ayrshire’s culture, heritage and social history, and improving the conditions of life through the creation of a multi-purpose community venue. The tunnel has been cleaned of the offending graffiti and the mural is being installed in four separate stages as funding is raised. As of April 2025 the first three stages have been completed and the mural hung with the involvement of several schools, colleges and community groups working with Thriving Communities on an outreach basis. In addition, young people are making short films which visitors to the mural can access via QR codes to see and hear the real stories being depicted on the mural.We are now seeking funding for the final stage of the mural which will include the further involvement of local schools and community groups.
We are applying for £2,000 towards the costs of materials, primarily the plywood boards on which the artwork is painted, to allow us to complete final stage of the project.
Location: The project is located in a disused railway tunnel at Alloway opposite the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
Proposed on behalf of: Alloway Railway Tunnel ART SCIO 052139
Looks like a great project and well worth supporting. I've seen the artwork and it looks magnificent. Such a difference to what this graffiti laden tunnel once looked like. Great work!
This is a wonderful project that has brought the community together in the most positive way. The mural is a great addition to our area and much loved by visitors. Deserving of continuing support
What stands out is the scale of the project. It’s an ambitious, innovative 300m mural. The outcome is a jaw droppingly beautiful interactive artwork for the community to enjoy and learn about Ayrshire history. I particularly love the unique storytelling using art, portraits, poetry, music, documentary films by using QR Codes to link from the mural to a film on their website. I enjoy reading the blogs about personal stories of local people. The scale and inclusiveness of community involvement has been the key to the success of the project with over 2000 people involved. The main impact on the community has been civic pride. This old tunnel is being transformed into a beautiful, safe destination venue – supporting the tourism industry and the local economy.
It will encourage the community to use the active travel path more and explore their local area. It’s uplifting and great for supporting health and wellbeing by walking or cycling through the tunnel down to the coast.
I think the Alloway Tunnel is a terrific project. I live in the Glasgow area and have recommended it to several people. No one has been disappointed. It is a great combination of local history and culture with lots of personal touches. I love it and am keen to see it completed.
Looks like a great project and well worth supporting. I've seen the artwork and it looks magnificent. Such a difference to what this graffiti laden tunnel once looked like. Great work!
Wonderful to see the local community supporting this project. It looks fantastic!
This is a wonderful project that has brought the community together in the most positive way. The mural is a great addition to our area and much loved by visitors. Deserving of continuing support
Excellent project. Well worth the investment.
What stands out is the scale of the project. It’s an ambitious, innovative 300m mural. The outcome is a jaw droppingly beautiful interactive artwork for the community to enjoy and learn about Ayrshire history. I particularly love the unique storytelling using art, portraits, poetry, music, documentary films by using QR Codes to link from the mural to a film on their website. I enjoy reading the blogs about personal stories of local people. The scale and inclusiveness of community involvement has been the key to the success of the project with over 2000 people involved. The main impact on the community has been civic pride. This old tunnel is being transformed into a beautiful, safe destination venue – supporting the tourism industry and the local economy.
It will encourage the community to use the active travel path more and explore their local area. It’s uplifting and great for supporting health and wellbeing by walking or cycling through the tunnel down to the coast.
A marvellous community ART project, well worth supporting to completion - if you haven't visited yet, go!
Best project in south Ayrshire for a long time
Made possible by volunteers
Brilliant community project enhancing the lives of many. Important that it is completed.
I think the Alloway Tunnel is a terrific project. I live in the Glasgow area and have recommended it to several people. No one has been disappointed. It is a great combination of local history and culture with lots of personal touches. I love it and am keen to see it completed.
Stunning piece of artwork, celebrating local heritage. Well worth the money and a visit.