Led Zeppelin lead singer Robert Plant features in a vibrant new mural about the heritage of West Bromwich on a Route 5. The artwork is part of a series of improvements to make the path safer, more welcoming and accessible.
The colourful mural on an M5 underpass at Sandwell is part of a range of measures to help the route feel safer and more accessible. PHOTO: National Highways
A colourful mural reflecting West Bromwich’s heritage and depicting Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant has been unveiled on a motorway subway to help this section of Route 5 feel safer and more welcoming.
Midlands-based artist Rob Fenton created the mural on an M5 underpass off Roebuck Lane in Sandwell, with the help of pupils at Holy Trinity C of E Primary School.
The artwork is part of a number of improvements on Route 5 in Sandwell, funded by National Highways, to help more people walk, wheel and cycle short journeys.
The £65,000 project also included upgrades to a crossing, a shared path and lighting.
Sandwell Council supported the project by removing large barriers to help make the path more accessible.
The team behind the work, including Sandwell Council's clean air mascot Auntie Duck. National Highways and Sandwell Council funded the mural, alongside other improvements to Route 5 in Sandwell. PHOTO: National Highways
The bold artwork weaves together a series of locally significant elements, including the Pavilion at Dartmouth Park, Oak House Park and Museum, and The Hawthorns stadium, with further nods to West Bromwich Albion FC’s historic crest.
These references sit alongside a portrait of local legend Robert Plant and lyrics from Led Zeppelin’s song Kashmir - ‘Let the sun beat down upon my face with stars to fill my dream’ - which the artist said inspired optimism and hope.
Artist Rob Fenton said:
“Local pride emerged strongly through my chats with the pupils with references to Robert Plant and Led Zeppelin, alongside architecture, industry, music, sport, and nature.
“These conversations helped shape a visual narrative that reflects both heritage and identity, rooted in the lived experiences and observations of the young participants.
“All the elements they shared has formed a layered and vibrant mural that celebrates the area’s past and present, while capturing the energy and aspirations of its younger generation.”
Robert Plant commented on the mural and said it was: “From a time and a place of happy inspiration long ago.”
Our senior urban designer Daryl Coulborn said:
“These improvements are a fantastic way to celebrate the musical heritage in this section of the National Cycle Network, while opening up the path to many more people on foot, wheelchair or cycle.
“This traffic-free path has great potential as a route for schoolchildren, commuters and local residents wanting to travel under the M5 to the other side of Sandwell.
"Over the years the subway had become graffitied and uninviting, which was a deterrent for many people.
"The new lighting, reduced barriers, and colourful mural have transformed the space, making it safer and more welcoming for everyone.”
PHOTO: National Highways
Freda Rashdi, Asset and Operational Development Manager at National Highways, said:
“The underpass forms part of a key route in Sandwell linking residential areas with offices and shops. In improving the area with better lighting and a new path, we have opened the route up for more people to feel safe walking or cycling to their destinations.
“It is now more accessible and welcoming for the whole community and will give residents a greater choice in how they travel, while showing greater pride in their local heritage and identity.”
There were also improvements to a crossing and a shared path
Sandwell Council launched its clean air campaign with mascot Auntie Duck to teach schoolchidlren about air pollution and how it affects their health and everyday lives. Cabinet Member for Children and Families, Councillor Mona Khurana, said:
“I would like to thank the pupils at Holy Trinity C of E School for taking part in this project and sharing their thoughts on what makes their town special.
“It has been wonderful to see young people reflecting on the things that matter most to them, from our rich industrial past and proud manufacturing heritage to the local cultural icons, places and communities that make Sandwell unique.”
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