Started in 1997, the mural is the work of well known local artist Mark E.W. Lewis. Over the years he has made additions to reflect our changing city and taken commissions to add people to the mural. With Councillor Matthew Winnington's support, Mark put in a bid for community funds to repair and refresh this icon of Southsea, loved by residents and visitors alike.

Needing the support of all three ward councillors to go straight through, the bid is opposed by Councillors Luke Stubbs and Linda Symes, both elected as Conservatives. This means the bid now has to be decided at Cabinet.

"I want to Save The Strand Mural, this unique piece of living art in our community not just shows the places in Portsmouth, but also the personality of its people. It would be an act of vandalism to allow it to fall into disrepair. I want to support its renovation from local community funds so future generations get to enjoy it as much as the countless thousands of people who have already. " - Cllr Matthew Winnington - Representing Eastney & Craneswater. 

If you agree with Matt that Mark's beautiful mural should be maintained as part of Southsea's rich culture please sign our petition calling on the Cabinet Members in Portsmouth City Council to authorise the funding of this work.