Saltdean Tunnel transformed with refurbishment campaign

What was once a brick-lined walkway is now a trip into the deep blue after a successful community campaign to refurbish the Saltdean Tunnel.

A stunning mural painted by Brighton-based artists REQ and Sarah Gillings, also known as S.o.S, now adorns the side of the tunnel featuring creatures which can be found under the Sussex sea.

They were joined by a team of tireless volunteers who worked for weeks to repaint railings, powerwash the site, weed the area and more - all in a bid to return the tunnel to its former glory.

Saltdean resident David Wilson led the push for the rejuvenation of the tunnel alongside Rottingdean Coastal Councillor Bridget Fishleigh.

Mr Wilson said: "There’s no doubt that Sarah and REQ have created a modern masterpiece which brings joy to everyone who walks through the tunnel.  

"The mural is so bright and vibrant. Every time I look at it I see something different."

And Cllr Fishleigh, who is one of just two independent councillors in Brighton and Hove, also said she could not be happier with the results.

She told The Argus: “It started out as an idea to spruce up the tunnel but ended up being a fantastic example of what happens when people stand up in a community, are prepared to lead projects and muck in themselves to make them happen.

“Thank you to everybody who donated with their blood, sweat, tears... and money.

“The results are clear to see. A piece of modern art which is free for everyone of all ages to come to Saltdean to enjoy.”

The mural is part of a wider project which aims to spruce up Saltdean Tunnel and the surrounding area.

Other additions to the site include new lights, a community noticeboard and a new art deco sign saying, "Welcome To Saltdean".

The mural has also been covered in an anti-graffiti covering.

The project was funded by a Crowdfunder campaign which helped raise thousands of pounds towards the renovation.

Those donating were able to sponsor a commemorative brick at the tunnel with a personalised message inscribed on it, leaving a legacy at the Saltdean site.

Started in early February, the popular project collected more than £5,800 in just three months with more than 100 people pledging their financial support.

And now, the campaign has come to fruition.

Artists REQ and Sarah said they drew their inspiration for the mural from Britain’s coastal waters, with animals including seals, eels and lobsters all included in the underwater scene.

They aimed to create the experience of being underwater with a 360-degree immersive experience.

The mural-painting pair do not use stencils or grids for their huge artworks, instead using spraypaints to create them freehand.

And the new look has been a huge hit with residents.

Laura Callaghan, an artist and founder of environmental campaign group Plastic Free Baby, who lives in the area, praised the mural for showcasing the coast to visitors.

The 37-year-old said: "The amazing sealife mural at the Saltdean Tunnel is a real celebration of our rich and diverse sealife in the UK.

"It demonstrates visually to all families that visit our beautiful Saltdean beach what we have to lose if we humans continue to put the seas at risk with plastic pollution."

ALL PICTURES BY KAREN CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY