New mural unveiled in Castleford park
Wednesday, July 23, 2025
Wakefield Council have unveiled a new mural in Savile Park in Castleford.
Created by local artist Tony Wade, in collaboration with the local community, the mural depicts buildings and locations that are an important part of the heritage of Savile Park and Whitwood. It also celebrates the area’s sporting activities and green spaces.
"We know that Savile Park is enjoyed by lots of people and so it was important that this mural was inspired by the local community and the landscapes they see every day.
“We want people to stop and look at the artwork and be proud of the place they call home. It’s a beautiful mural that will be appreciated for years to come.”
Cllr Hannah Appleyard
Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport
“We know how important our parks and green spaces are to people, and I hope visitors enjoy this mural and it gets them talking about the local area and environment.
“This is a fantastic example of how the community, local councillors and the Council can work together to improve our local areas.”
Cllr Daniel Wilton
Cabinet Member for Communities
Artist, Tony Wade, said: “It was a real pleasure working with the communities in Whitwood and around Savile Park to create this new mural.
“I had a great response from groups and individuals that use the park, including Savvy Park Runrz, Castleford Cricket Club and Savile Park Bowling Club, as they were all keen to share what an amazing, well-used and much-loved space the park is.
“The artworks for the mural were made in community and school workshops and I’m pleased that all three local primary schools were involved. There were also creative sessions in Castleford Library for the craft group that meets there, as well as open public workshops.
“I think it’s important that local people, of all ages, contributed directly to the creation of this mural, and their skill and creativity is evident in each brushstroke.”
The mural has been installed on the park wall along Lumley Street. It consists of 18 individual dibond aluminium panels, each 4ft by 8ft. The total length of the installation is over 300 feet. On the entrance gate to the park additional murals of butterflies that are found in the park brighten the entrance.
The project has been supported by local ward councillors in the Altofts and Whitwood ward through the Local Capital Grants programme.
This project is part of the legacy of Our Year – Wakefield District 2024. ‘Crossings and Gateways’ is delivering an exciting public art programme across communities in the district. And provide a legacy that helps to transform places and celebrate the district’s unique heritage. As well as looking into the future.
Our Year – Wakefield District 2024 was a partnership celebration led by Wakefield Council. This huge 366-day programme of cultural and heritage activity took place in 2024 and offered people across Wakefield district the chance to get involved in culture and creativity, experiencing the positive role it plays in their community. Our Year and the Crossings & Gateways programme have been kindly supported with investment from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Arts Council England.
To find out more about Our Year, please visit www.experiencewakefield.co.uk/our-year-2024.
For more information about the mural, visit Savile Park Whitwood Murals | Experience Wakefield.