Local art students revealed an impressive new mural at the recently opened Wickes store at Kew Retail Park in Southport.
The grand reveal took place on Friday (8th May 2026), marking the culmination of a creative
partnership between Southport College and the home improvement retailer.
The project saw 30 students from Southport College submit diverse design proposals for a mural intended to celebrate the link between Wickes and the local community.
After a difficult selection process, one winning design was chosen to be permanently displayed on the interior walls of the new store.
The winning design was created by Lilly O’Connor, 19.
Her incredible design showcases local Southport landmarks, including the Marine Way Bridge, The Atkinson and the Big Wheel Southport, combined with references to Wickes, including their iconic peacock.
A rainbow also features in the mural, reflecting Wickes’ commitment to being an inclusive and diverse employer.
The final mural was painted by students from UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma Creative Practice: Art, Design, Communication (Year 1 Art & Graphics), plus UAL Level 4 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design.
Lilly was accompanied by Southport College art and design lecturers and by her proud Mum Kay and her proud Grandma Joan.
Lilly was then invited to cut a special celebratory cake marking the successful partnership between Wickes and Southport College.
The mural was completed using standard emulsion, including Wickes’ signature blue, and
serves as a bright reminder of what we can achieve when we work together.
Anna Holland-Starling, Southport Education Group said:
“This has been a brilliant opportunity for our students to work on a real-world brief and see their creativity come to life in a public space. We are so proud of the work they have produced and the professional way that they have collaborated with the Wickes team.”
Kev Rimmer, Regional Leader, Wickes said:
“It’s been a pleasure to support these young artists.
“The final design is fantastic and it really brings a sense of local pride into our new store.
“We’re grateful to the students for helping us make this branch feel like a true part of the Southport community.”
Wickes officially opened its new store in Southport in October last year, providing the local community with a much broader and more convenient shopping experience and creating 20 new jobs.
Located next door to the former Kitchen & Bathroom store, the new site at Kew Retail Park marks the latest step in the retailer’s ongoing investment in its store network and now offers the full Wickes home improvement range.
The new 30,355 sq ft Wickes store features a dedicated 4,135 sq ft showroom, showcasing an all-new kitchen and bathroom display designed to inspire every home project, whatever the budget.
Customers can explore a wide range of products, benefit from a Dulux paint mixing service, and receive expert guidance in the in-store Project Centre. The store also offers solar solutions to help customers make their homes more energy-efficient, along with disabled parking and EV chargers in the retail park.
The Wickes Community Programme has supported over 7,000 charities and projects since it
launched and is looking for more to support.
They have a product donation fund of £300,000 to support charities and community organisations.
For more information, visit www.wickes.co.uk/communityprogramme
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