How Halton Is Changing: New Landmark Street Art Transforms Widnes Town Centre

As spring brings renewal and fresh energy to the natural landscape, Halton is experiencing a transformation of its own this time through bold new public art in the heart of Widnes.

Commissioned by Halton Borough Council in collaboration with local artist Tony Mallon, a striking new 53.5 metre artwork titled Winds of Change has been unveiled on New Street. The installation marks a significant milestone in the ongoing regeneration and cultural enrichment of Widnes Town Centre.

Rooted in Tony Mallon’s signature community-led approach, Winds of Change draws deeply from Widnes’ heritage and the lived experiences of its residents. Inspired by archival photography and enriched by poems, reflections and personal stories contributed by the local community, the piece forms a powerful visual tapestry, one that celebrates the voices, identity and shared history of Widnes.

Strategically positioned along New Street, a key pedestrian route linking Widnes Shopping Park to the traditional high street, the artwork transforms a functional walkway into a vibrant, story rich public space, inviting both residents and visitors to pause, reflect and connect.

 Image credits: top left installation in progress, top right, launch event on the 8th April and shot of the artwork.

Visitors are encouraged to explore Widnes’ emerging reputation as an open-air gallery. Alongside Winds of Change, the Beyond The Tracks music trail offers another engaging cultural experience. Beginning at Widnes train station, the 4.6 mile accessible walking trail features 17 stops celebrating the area’s rich musical heritage.

 Image credit: One of the 17 plaques on the Beyond The Tracks trail

Designed with inclusivity at its core, the trail includes audio narration at each stop and British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation provided by Deafness Resource Centre. QR codes along the route incorporate NaviLens technology, enabling visually impaired users to easily locate and access information. The trail was introduced by global pop icon and local legend Melanie C, adding further cultural significance to the experience. Beyond The Tracks trail information found here. https://visithalton.co.uk/beyond-the-tracks/

Across the river in Runcorn, Halton’s artistic transformation continues. The Dukesfield Viaduct now showcases a series of striking murals created by internationally renowned artists Liam Bononi and Aylo Nomad. These works bring to life four compelling local stories:

Æthelflæd, 915 AD

The Suffragettes and the 1913 Bombing

The Pubs & Theatres of Old Runcorn

The Shaws, 1881