As part of Higgins’ Social Value delivery for the Land North of Chippenham Gardens scheme, which is a key and fundamental part of the South Kilburn Regeneration Programme, artist Frankie Strand was commissioned to create a unique mural for a section of the construction site hoarding. Frankie Strand is a London-based artist with a background in street art and illustration.

The mural is a celebration of the greenery and wildlife found at Chippenham Gardens in the past, present and future and features British plants and wildlife throughout the different seasons.

The new Public Square, which is featured in the centre of the mural, will deliver a new public realm for everyone to enjoy. This high quality and accessible space will contain vibrant planting, bespoke street furniture and new lighting columns to improve overall visibility and create a place of tranquillity and enjoyment. It is expected to be delivered by summer 2022.

The apples featured on the mural are a nod to the orchard historically located on the site back in the mid-to late 1800s. The flowers give a flavour of the proposed planting within the new Public Square which includes Pencilled Cranesbill, Welsh Polypody and Daisies. These plant species will attract birds and pollinating insects including bees and ties into the surrounding biodiversity of Brent’s Bee Corridor.

The bird on the left of the mural is a goldfinch which are common garden birds identified by their distinctive red faces and yellow wings. The bird on the right is a Great Spotted Woodpecker which are black and white with a bright red tail. Woodpeckers are uncommon in London but can be found in urban parks and gardens and their distinctive drumming or pecking noise often means they are heard before they are seen!

For more information about Frankie and her work please visit the website.