New street art in Ballymena celebrates local heritage with a splash of colour

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Unveils Vibrant Murals to Revitalise Ballymena Town Centre

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has proudly announced the completion of three new street art installations across Ballymena town centre, aimed at celebrating the town’s rich heritage, enhancing public spaces, and attracting both visitors and investment.

Supporting Ballymena’s Town Centre Through Creativity

The street art project has been delivered with funding from the Department for Communities and the Council itself. This initiative builds on the success of earlier public art programmes, including a series of installations and an art festival in Larne last summer.

Alongside other town-centre revitalisation efforts — including shopfront improvement grants, pop-up shops, and town centre animation projects — the street art is designed to boost economic activity, footfall, and community pride.

New Street Art Showcases Ballymena’s Unique Character

Each mural has been carefully commissioned to reflect Ballymena’s distinctive local identity, adding colour and vibrancy to key streets while connecting residents and visitors with the town’s cultural heritage.

Flamingo Ballroom Tribute on Greenvale Street

One of the standout additions is a stunning pink flamingo mural by London-based street artist Woskerski. Located on Greenvale Street, this piece pays tribute to the legendary Flamingo Ballroom, a much-loved music venue that once hosted icons like The Rolling Stones and Roy Orbison.

Church Street’s ‘Onwards and Upwards’ by Peaball

Church Street has also been given a creative uplift with a new mural titled “Onwards and Upwards” by artist Peaball. This inspirational artwork symbolises ambition, resilience, and the spirit of adventure.

River Braid Celebration on Ballymoney Street

At 53 Ballymoney Street, artist Shane O’Driscoll has created an abstract mural inspired by Ballymena’s market town roots, local agriculture, and the flowing River Braid — a fitting homage to the town’s landscape and history.

Transforming Ballymena Through Public Art

The street art project is part of a wider strategy focused on:

• Enhancing the visual appeal of Ballymena town centre
• Encouraging increased footfall and local business growth
• Making public spaces more inviting and welcoming
• Celebrating local heritage and strengthening community pride

Official Comments on Ballymena’s Street Art Initiative

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons

“Public art has the power to transform spaces, and these new artworks in Ballymena are a fantastic example of how creativity can enhance our town centres. This initiative brings colour, vibrancy, and a sense of identity to the heart of the community, making Ballymena an even more welcoming place.”

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman William McCaughey

“These fantastic additions to Ballymena’s streetscape brighten our town centre and celebrate important aspects of local history. Public art plays a crucial role in revitalising urban spaces, making them more welcoming for businesses, residents, and visitors alike.”

Clare Moore, Business Engagement Officer, Ballymena BID

“We’re thrilled to see these striking new artworks bringing fresh energy and colour to Ballymena town centre. Already, they’ve become real talking points — encouraging exploration and adding excitement to the shopping experience.”

“At Ballymena BID, we are proud to support projects that help enhance the town centre and create positive opportunities for local businesses.”