Young vandals in Benfleet could be transformed into radical contemporary artists, if an innovative scheme gets approved next Monday.

Castle Point Council's highways and leisure committee is being asked to approve a project for a major new community mural on walls currently defaced by graffiti at Tarpots shopping parade.

Professional artist Scott Irving who is masterminding the plan said: "Most young people are attracted to the element of rebellion, painting with a spray can denotes.

"The project aims to put a lively but appropriate piece of art onto the walls facing each other at the walk through from the DIY shop's car park at Tarpots."

Passers by would also be given the chance to add their artistic mark to the mural project, which is expected to cost around £4,500.

The highways and leisure committee which is considering the scheme, meets from 7.30pm next Monday in the council chamber at Castle Point Council Offices, Kiln Road, Thundersley.

Published Wednesday, May 28, 2003

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