#01 - The Buckles Mural
'BUCKLE UP’... for more colour, joy and light celebrating Chippenham’s rich history and contemporary life. Created by artist Ed Russell, this is the first piece of street art launched by PAC.
The site of this mural marks the location of the old canal terminus as detailed on the blue plaque on site. The mural also evokes memories of our thriving market town heritage. This project would not have been possible without the support of The Arts Society Kington Langley, The Heritage Quarter Team and Buckles owner, Steve Webb. Sincere thanks to you all.
Find out more about the site's history here.
BEFORE
Artist: Ed Russell
Instagram: @edposter1
Ed Poster is a Swindon-based street artist specializing in spray paint and airbrush artwork, known for his bold, expressive designs. His work often features intricate calligraphy, seamlessly blending traditional lettering with contemporary techniques to create distinctive visual pieces.
Since founding his own art and design company in 2013, he has worked on a wide range of projects, from custom commissions to large-scale murals all over the country. Always striving to push creative boundaries, Ed Poster is constantly exploring new opportunities, collaborations, and innovative ways to evolve his artistic style.
Site History
In 1796 construction workers burrowed their way from Semmington on the Kennett and Avon Canal to Wilts and Berks. By 1798 a Chippenham branch line had terminated at England’s Meadow, Chippenham.
However, it had to be extended to what we now know as the bus station area due to an act of parliament. The stipulation stated that the Chippenham Branch Line Terminus should be within 100 yards of the town. The England’s meadow area only had 15 houses at the time, while the main part of town had 500 dwellings.
So, a tunnel was constructed under what was the garden of a Mr John Simpkins; which must have been an upheaval. It is now Borland’s Road. The Chippenham branch line was extended, terminating by the Bear Hotel now known as La Vechia Orsa. Effectively the site of the bus station.
So, this site has a long history as an important threshold for the town’s comings and goings. The canal was primarily built to transport coal from the Somerset coal fields but also carried corn and agricultural goods. This doubtless helped stock the thriving markets in the town centre just a few yards away.
Please visit wbct.org.uk for more information.
Location
Buckles Fish and Chip Shop/Chippenham Bus Station
