New illuminations spectacle called Preston's Canopy of Colour to transform Fishergate
A new sustainable public art installation is set to transform Fishergate with colour later this month.
More than 300 colourful flowers, butterflies and foliage elements will soon ‘bloom’ above the city’s high street as part of Preston’s Canopy of Colour, a brand new public art installation designed to bring colour, vibrancy and a sense of celebration to the city’s Fishergate.
Spanning almost 700 metres, the decorative scheme will see a canopy of bright, nature- inspired motifs suspended above the street, creating an uplifting visual experience for shoppers, visitors and businesses alike.
Collectively, the nature-inspired elements will form a striking aerial display running the length of Fishergate, which will also be lit at night.
Inspired by the increasingly popular spring and summer aerial installations seen across Europe, such as the umbrella displays that brighten European streets and plazas, Canopy of Colour will offer the city its first installation of this kind, at this scale, and which is believed to be the largest of its kind, nationally.
Sustainability sits at the heart of the project: the printed motifs are produced using ‘Recyprint’, an eco-friendly and recyclable material, whilst they are mounted onto recycled aluminium structures ensuring both durability and environmental responsibility.
Organisers say the installation will transform the high street into a lively and welcoming space.
Once in place, the street will come alive with colour and movement as the flowers, butterflies and foliage create a cheerful canopy overhead.
Funded by city centre businesses, via the Preston Business Improvement District, the aim is to encourage people to spend time in the area and help drive visitors to explore not only the fabulous display but also the wider city centre offer.
By combining creativity, sustainability and community, Preston’s Canopy of Colour promises to add a joyful new landmark to the city’s high street and a reason for residents and visitors alike to look up and enjoy the view.
John Boydell, chair of Preston BID, said: “Preston’s Canopy of Colour is a fantastic example of how we can reimagine our high street to create something vibrant, welcoming and memorable for everyone who visits. By combining striking design with sustainable materials,this installation not only enhances the look and feel of Fishergate but also reflects our commitment to supporting the environment and our local businesses. We hope it will encourage more people to spend time in the city centre, explore everything on offer and enjoy a unique experience right in the heart of Preston.”
Adrian Phillips, Chief Executive of Preston City Council said: "Preston's Canopy of Colour is an exciting project to inject additional life and vibrancy into our main high street this summer. The Council fully supports Preston BID’s initiative that brings people, both old and new, into the city centre to enjoy what we have to offer.
“We also welcome that the Canopy of Colour is environmentally friendly and supports the city’s Green Pledge campaign.”
Installation of the project will begin in the week commencing April 20, with the display remaining in situ until the winter months.
The official ‘opening’ of the Canopy of Colour will take place at 6.30pm on April 30, with the SpudBros, the StreetMonkeys and members of the city’s business and public communities in attenence.
Everyone is welcome to attend and support.