New Mural Unveiled at Balloo Recycling Centre

A vibrant new mural has been unveiled at Balloo Household Recycling Centre (HRC) on Balloo Road, Bangor, transforming a previously plain wall into a bold celebration of creativity and sustainability.

The artwork, created by renowned local street artists Codo and Ana Fish, was completed almost entirely using paint sourced from the Paint Reuse container at the centre — highlighting how everyday items can be given a second life.

The mural brings to life the winning designs from Ards and North Down Borough Council's School Recycling Street Art Competition, where pupils across the Borough were invited to submit artwork focused on environmental protection. Codo, acting as lead judge, selected the top entries for 'Best Artwork' and 'Best Message' and incorporated the young artists' ideas into the final large‑scale piece.

The mural also highlights Ards and North Down Borough Council's free Paint Reuse Scheme, available at all Household Recycling Centres. Reusable paint is available at no cost to community groups, schools and residents of the Borough for projects - from DIY, upcycling, garden improvements, youth club refreshers and creative arts. By choosing reused paint, residents help cut waste, lower carbon emissions from new paint production, and support the Borough's sustainability goals.

Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum, said:
"I am delighted to see this remarkable mural installed at Balloo Recycling Centre. It reflects the imagination of our young people, the skill of our local artists, and the Council's commitment to promoting reuse and reducing waste. Projects like this remind us that everyone in our Borough has a role to play in protecting our environment, and I hope it inspires many more residents to make use of the Paint Reuse Scheme."