Street art helps tackle anti-social behaviour

A community-led street improvement project is helping to reshape a Newcastle neighbourhood through public art designed to make the area feel safer and more welcoming.

New artwork has been unveiled on Shields Road in Byker as part of a wider regeneration initiative supported by Newcastle City Council and Northumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner.

Funded through Project Shield, the scheme saw artist Alec Saunders work with local young people and community organisations to create designs for shutters and walls along Addison Road.

The project forms part of ongoing efforts to improve the area through additional patrols, environmental improvements and community engagement.

Byker has been a Project Shield hotspot for the past two years, with partners targeting anti-social behaviour including street drinking, littering and loitering.

Officials say the approach has contributed to a 40 per cent reduction in anti-social behaviour over a rolling 12-month period.

The initiative follows a similar transformation project in West Denton, where reports of anti-social behaviour fell significantly after new artwork was introduced.

Susan Dungworth Northumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “The area has always had a strong identity with deep community roots – a proud Newcastle neighbourhood – but residents had been telling me about concerns such as anti-social behaviour.

“And so, I am pleased all the recent work, effort and investment is having a positive impact and the area is on the up. 

“This artwork really taps into the grit and creativity of the area and helps make it a more inviting environment people want to be in.

“We are already seeing the impact of improvements to the area with falling anti-social behaviour figures and increased feelings of safety and we will keep working together to build on this and big Byker up further.”

Christine Knox, community safety lead at Newcastle City Council, added: “Projects like this, which we are proud to be involved in, don’t just deter unwanted graffiti and antisocial behaviour they change attitudes.

“Local people feel more involved in and responsible for the area where they live. 

“This amazing artwork creates a welcoming and friendly public space that reflects the character and aspirations of the people of Byker and builds a real sense of community.”

Jennie Maughan, from Foundation Futures, added: “This collaboration was driven by the creativity and insight of our local young people. 

“They participated in the artistic process by meeting with the artist and sharing their thoughts, ideas, and views of the area where they live. 

“It is a priority for us to ensure young people build mutual respect and positive relationships with the police. 

“By involving them in projects like this, we send a clear message: young people's ideas matter, their voice is important, and they are key partners in making their community feel like home.”

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