Community Mosaic Unveiled at Isleworth Station |
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Made possible by local volunteers and Thriving Communities funding July 31, 2026 Isleworth Station gained a vibrant new landmark on Friday 24 July, when residents, councillors and volunteers gathered for the official opening of the area’s newest community mosaic. Installed on the Friends of Isleworth Station (FOIS) planter in the station car park, the artwork marks the culmination of months of collaborative work between FOIS volunteers and children from two local primary schools. The mosaic, designed around an orchard theme, was conceived by FOIS as part of its ongoing mission to brighten the station and its surroundings. The planter it now adorns is already filled with flowers tended by volunteers, and the group hopes the mosaic will become a cheerful focal point for commuters and visitors. FOIS has made clear that this is only the beginning, with further beautification projects planned for the months ahead. Julian Joyce, treasurer of Friends of Isleworth Station, secured funding for the project through Hounslow Council’s Thriving Communities Fund. Reflecting on the group’s ambitions, he said the aim was to bring colour to the station while involving local residents in a creative, hands-on project. The grant, he explained, made it possible to purchase both the plants for the planter and the materials needed to bring the mosaic to life. The mosaic is one of 27 community-led initiatives supported this week by the Thriving Communities Fund, which awarded £17,000 to groups across the borough. The fund is designed to help organisations strengthen neighbourhood ties, improve wellbeing and reduce isolation by supporting projects that bring people together. Among the latest recipients are Creative Mile CIC, which will run creative workshops for older residents; the Polish Clan Association, which is establishing a Polish Women’s Wellbeing Hub; and Friends of Northcote Nature Reserve, which will use its grant to purchase tools and equipment for conservation work.
The Mayor of Hounslow, Ranjit Gill and Cllr Ajmer Grewal, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Safety, joined local councillors and FOIS members at the unveiling. Cllr Grewal praised the volunteer-led organisations receiving funding, noting their role in creating lasting connections through community days, street parties and local events. The investment, she said, reflects the Council’s commitment to ensuring that every neighbourhood has the opportunity to flourish. Meanwhile, applications for the next round of small grants are open until Monday 14 September, offering further opportunities for local groups to develop ideas that strengthen community life. Those interested in applying can contact the Thriving Communities Grant managers at community.development@hounslow.gov.uk.
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