Cambridge's Jesus Green Lido Gets a Splashy New Mural Makeover!

A vibrant new mural now covers the fences around Jesus Green Lido, the outdoor swimming pool in Cambridge. The mural, painted in shades of green and blue, features a lively river scene with people swimming, walking, and cycling. The famous King's College chapel is also included in the background, connecting the artwork to the city's heritage. A large sign reading Jesus Green Lido stands out on the mural, making it clear where visitors are. The main reason for creating the mural was to prevent graffiti, which had been a problem for a long time. The fences used to be covered in graffiti, making the area look untidy and unwelcoming. Now, the mural has transformed the space, giving it a fresh and inviting look.

The artist behind the mural, Anugrah Mishra, said he wanted to capture the joy and energy of swimming while also reflecting the history of Cambridge. The mural is believed to be the longest in the city, stretching across about 120 square meters. Lifeguard Zach Walsh Wall explained that the mural has had a positive impact. He said that before the mural, graffiti was rarely removed because it would just reappear. Now, artists and visitors respect the mural, and the graffiti problem has disappeared. The mural has become a source of pride for the community and has improved the atmosphere around the pool.

The idea for the mural came from Annabel Wright, the assistant manager of the pool. She wanted to turn the fence into a space for art that everyone could enjoy. She reached out to Anugrah Mishra, who had studied art at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge. With support from the Cambridge City Council, the project became a reality. The mural was completed in late November, after work began in September. The pool itself is historic, having opened in 1923, and is managed by GLL, a charitable social enterprise. The pool stays open all year, even during the winter, attracting dedicated swimmers who brave the cold water. The mural has brought new life to the area, making it a more enjoyable place for swimmers, walkers, and cyclists who pass by every day.