The historic but derelict ABC Cinema is set to be revitalised from Monday (March 10) with a vibrant mural depicting Luton’s music, film and car-making heritage after Lutonians cast their votes for two designs.
The Art Deco landmark on George Street has stood vacant for 25 years, but from next week, the painting project will begin to transform the neglected building.
Two design options were presented to the public last month, both reflecting Luton’s diverse history and community spirit. The winner was an artwork that features a stylised cityscape with an Art Deco cinema front, highlighting the town’s musical and cinematic contributions, including references to the Hollywood film Blinded by the Light – which is set in the town and based on journalist Sarfraz Manzoor’s memoir about his early upbringing in Bury Park – and Brit Award-winning pop star Myles Smith.
The mural project, led by artist Sarah Hodgkins of Charlotte Designs, is part of a broader regeneration initiative to transform neglected areas in the town centre, aligning with the council’s Luton 2040 vision of enhancing lives through arts, culture, and heritage.
The ABC Cinema mural is one of several public art projects planned to enhance Luton’s visual appeal, attract footfall, and instil pride among residents. Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) in collaboration with Luton Council and Step Forward Luton, other initiatives include a recent installation on Silver Street and an upcoming mural on Guildford Street.
Be the first to comment