A much-vaunted community mural project spearheaded in Shoebury could be extended to other areas of the borough, it has been revealed.

Councillors were poised to back new measures aimed at rejuvenating dingy subways across the town.

Officials believe "properly planned, executed and maintained murals" on selected structures and walls could enhance the appearance of local areas.

The move could also deter indiscriminate graffiti and anti-social behaviour and boost public safety.

Graham Garner, assistant director of technical services, said: "Following discussions in spring 1998, a detailed scheme was drawn up whereby the council would undertake basic maintenance to the Constable Way underpass including refurbishment of the lighting and cutting back the overgrown planting."

Pupils from Friars Infants School and Shoebury High School then teamed up to give the underpass a colourful facelift.

They worked with renowned artist Gordana Bjelic Rados to design the mural in the theme of the Four Seasons.

Peter Wyatt, a parent governor at Friars Infants, said: "It was great to see the community in action with so many different groups of people working together to improve their local environment.

"I think this was a very positive and empowering project that shows that we can make things better if we join forces."

Dozens of key groups came forward to offer assistance in the painting project. These included:

Shoebury's Community Development Team

The Southend Youth Arts Partnership

Essex Police

Friars Infants School

Shoebury High School

Prospects Business Training.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.