Aylesbury underpass transformed by artwork project celebrating town's Paralympic legacy

Aylesbury Town Council has released images showing a new mural beneath the Paralympic bridge in Aylesbury.

Created by Natalie Bartrum the artwork pays tribute to Sir Ludwig Guttmann the neurologist credited with inspiring the formation of the Paralympic Games.

It includes a famous quote from the German-British doctor who launched the Stoke Mandeville Games in the 40s. “If I ever did one good thing it was introducing sport into rehabilitation,” is projected onto the mural.

Popular not-for-profit collectives are also promoted within the artwork like Dan's Community Group and the Aylesbury Wombles. The transformed underpass can be accessed via Guttmann Road or from the end of Elm Farm Road.

Aylesbury’s Mayor, Councillor Sherrilyn Bateman, attended the official opening of the mural. She said: "I was honoured to be part of the creation of this amazing mural. Opening the mural is an absolute pleasure. Thank you to Natalie, who worked hard with different groups to bring the design together, and then with volunteers to paint the base coat.

"This mural also helps bring together the Mandeville and Elm Farm estates through this well-used foot and cycle path. Stop by and see what you can spot in every part of the installation"

Vishal Khatri, a director for Network Rail, which supported the project, added: “We are pleased to have worked closely with Aylesbury Town Council to help make this fantastic project possible.

“The vibrant mural has transformed the underpass into a brighter, more welcoming and inclusive space, while celebrating the local community and the positive contribution it makes to Aylesbury.”

“We’re proud to have played a role in bringing the artwork to life and hope it will be enjoyed by everyone who uses this important route for many years to come.”

“Aylesbury Town Council is looking forward to sharing the new artwork with residents and visitors and celebrating the creativity and hard work that has gone into its design and delivery.”

In recent years the council has run a series of community projects improving the appearance of some of Aylesbury’s busiest underpasses. Similar projects were completed by Vale Park and Cambridge Street.