Transforming Hall Gate to Wood Street Alleyway: A Community-Driven Project
City of Doncaster Council has successfully transformed the Hall Gate to Wood Street Alleyway, turning it from an uninviting space into a vibrant and engaging public art installation.
This community-driven initiative sought to enhance the city’s cultural landscape while improving safety and accessibility in the area.
The alleyway, once known for anti-social behaviour and a lack of appeal, has been reimagined into a creative passageway designed to engage and inspire pedestrians. The project, developed in collaboration with Higher Rhythm recording studio and artist Jamie Bubb, integrates art and storytelling to celebrate Doncaster’s rich musical heritage.
The transformation began in 2021 when Higher Rhythm launched a community engagement project, collecting personal stories about encounters with famous music artists in Doncaster. These accounts became the foundation of 'Doncaster Sound Memories,' a project funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Following its success, the CDC Culture Team saw an opportunity to expand this initiative to Hall Gate, incorporating artistic elements to create an immersive experience.
“Our goal was to enhance the alleyway and improve people’s perception of safety and security. Through creative storytelling and immersive design, we’ve turned this alleyway into an artistic landmark for Doncaster,” said Councillor Joe Blackham Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure & Enforcement.
“The way in which the different areas of the city link together is really important and it is testament to how art can reshape public spaces. Hopefully this can be the start of things to come and people start to see Doncaster as somewhere people’s creations can shine."
Local artist Jamie Bubb envisioned painting the alleyway walls black, showcasing enlarged stories alongside artistic imagery, all enhanced by dynamic lighting. In collaboration with Steven Mundin of Higher Rhythm, neon pink lyrics from The Fall’s cover of I'm Lost in Music were added, creating a locally relevant and nostalgic touch.
To further elevate the space, retro zig-zag lighting was installed, reminiscent of classic nightclubs and late-night gigs. These vibrant lights not only highlight the artwork but also foster a lively and interactive atmosphere. QR codes embedded within the installation allow visitors to explore the narratives behind the art, offering deeper insights into Doncaster’s musical history.
The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. Residents and visitors alike have embraced the transformation, praising the alleyway’s newfound identity as a welcoming and dynamic space. This initiative has successfully shifted perceptions of the area, demonstrating the power of art and collaboration in urban regeneration.
- Category: Town Centre