Condemned Hull housing estate hosts graffiti ‘jam’

A soon-to-be demolished housing estate in Hull hosted its second ‘graffiti jam’, which attracted over 100 artists from across the country to spray paint 22 homes.

Homes awaiting demolition have previously been a magnet for trouble in the area, but a recent research study undertaken by Humberside Fore and Rescue Service revealed a huge decline in anti-social behaviour and arson in the area, with young people now proud of the unique art gallery on their doorstep, which was organised by Bankside Gallery in London.

The council homes awaiting demolition will make way for new build houses as the final phase of the Preston Road Area redevelopment which is part of Hull City Council’s city-wide housing regeneration programme.

The council’s assistant director for Neighbourhoods and Housing Dave Richmond said: ‘The graffiti artists have transformed the area into a vibrant and colourful community art gallery which local people are proud to have in their area.

‘It was amazing to see one 92 year old watching the house she had grown up in being transformed and creating a positive statement out of the sadness which arises out of seeing a former cherished home soon to be demolished.

‘The artwork was always going to be temporary yet the way that local people young and old took to it surpassed expectations, we were aware of fewer call outs for anti-social behaviour in the area since the last summer’s jam, however we were amazed and delighted when Humberside Fire and Rescue Service reported that arson ASB had gone down by 41% in the Marfleet Ward, with the graffiti being a contributing factor.’

‘The work was free of charge to the council, saving us and other public services money. We have been blown away by how Bankside Gallery has been able to organise such a massive undertaking on nothing but passion and goodwill.

‘We are grateful to Crown Paints and KWL for contributing paint and equipment, and for the many media outlets that have helped us to publicise this unique event.’

Watch a video of the project below: