Castleford's Subway Gets a Colorful Makeover Celebrating Local History!

Castleford, a town in Yorkshire, is about to get a creative makeover in one of its busiest walkways. Artist Ellie Way has designed twenty-two new pieces of public art that will be installed in the Beancroft Subway, a forty-meter-long tunnel near the railway station. These artworks were inspired by conversations with local residents, who shared stories about Castleford’s past and what makes the town unique. The posters feature bold and simple images that highlight important parts of Castleford’s history, such as coal boats, sweets, and an old tram. The goal is to make the subway more welcoming and to celebrate the town’s heritage.

The project is part of a larger effort by Wakefield Council to improve the area around Castleford railway station. Council leader Denise Jeffery said the new artworks are meant to honor the people, places, and stories that have made Castleford well-known. The council explained that the art will reflect the town’s Roman connections, its history of coal mining, and its sporting successes. The improvements are funded by a grant of seven hundred and twenty thousand pounds from Network Rail, which is being used to make the area safer and more attractive for pedestrians.

In addition to the new art, the council has already added better lighting and security cameras, resurfaced Station Road, and painted murals at Welbeck Street and Tickle Cock Bridge. The subway itself was in poor condition, with stained walls and broken lights, and many people thought it was unsafe. Now, with the new art and other upgrades, the subway will become a much more pleasant place to walk. Most people who took part in a public survey supported the changes, and the council hopes the new look will give everyone a better understanding of Castleford’s history. The subway will be closed for a few days in March while the art is installed, but clear signs will show people where to go instead. The council is excited to see how the community reacts to the new and improved walkway.