MORE than 2,000 bricks have been painted to create a wall of colour in the centre of Bridgwater.

The St John Street/Broadway Brick Project has seen a bare brick façade at the junction of the two streets turned into a vibrant landmark.

The giant, painted patchwork, was created by community groups and individuals painting individual bricks, with the culmination of the project marked by community celebrations.

An original target of painting 1,800 bricks was soon beaten, with 2,300 now decked out in bright colours thanks to the effort – which included everyone from pre-schoolers to pensioners.

“The reaction has been positive with parents saying how proud they are to see their children’s artwork on public display while memorial bricks provide a lasting reminder of past generations,” a Somerset Council spokesperson said.

The project was funded through the Bridgwater Town Deal, which saw £23.2million of government investment secured to revitalise the social, cultural and economic offerings in the town centre.

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The mural was co-ordinated by the Brick Project Community Interest Company (CIC), who worked with Town Wardens to gather ideas and inspiration from residents and community groups before painting got started last month.

The project ended with a celebration on Sunday (August 3) at the Mingle Café, with a showcase of town talent including flute playing and poetry.

Councillor Brian Smedley, leader of Bridgwater Town Council, said: “This project is a brilliant example of what happens when you give people the tools to be creative and take pride in their town.

“It started as a simple idea—paint a few bricks—and ended up as a bold, beautiful statement from the whole community.

“The wall now tells stories of Bridgwater past, present and future, and every brick is a piece of our shared identity. It shows what we can achieve when we work together.”

The new colourful wall at Broadway/St John Street, Bridgwater. Picture: Mayor of Bridgwater

Cllr Mike Rigby, Somerset Council’s lead member for economic development, planning and assets, added: “Funding from the Town Deal is helping us to unlock Bridgwater’s creativity and culture and it’s great to see bare bricks turned into a tapestry everyone can be proud of.”

Project leaders thanked the Co-Op for use of the wall, the Mingle Café and Bridgwater Gallery, and all who gave up their time and shared their enthusiasm.

Mayor of Bridgwater, Cllr Kathy Pearce, and Mayoress Sue joined the celebration and praised the efforts of all involved.

The mayor said: “This creative community initiative has truly captured the imagination of Bridgwater locals. It’s wonderful to see such a joyful, inclusive project bringing people together in such a meaningful way.”