Preston’s 700mtr Canopy of Colour set to transform Fishergate
More than 300 colourful flowers, butterflies and foliage elements will soon ‘bloom’ above the city’s high street as part of Preston’s Canopy of Colour, a brand-new public art installation designed to bring colour, vibrancy, and a sense of celebration to the city’s Fishergate.
Spanning almost 700 metres, the decorative scheme will see a canopy of bright, nature-inspired motifs suspended above the street, creating an uplifting visual experience for shoppers, visitors, and businesses alike. Collectively, the nature-inspired elements will form a striking aerial display running the length of Fishergate, which will also be lit at night.
Inspired by the increasingly popular spring and summer aerial installations seen across Europe, such as the umbrella displays that brighten European streets and plazas, the Canopy of Colour will offer the city its first installation of this nature, at this scale, which is believed to be the largest of its kind, nationally.
Sustainability sits at the heart of the project. The printed motifs are produced using ‘Recyprint’, an eco-friendly and recyclable material. They are mounted onto recycled aluminium structures ensuring both durability and environmental responsibility.
The installation will transform the high street into a lively and welcoming space. Once in place, the street will come alive with colour and movement as the flowers, butterflies and foliage create a cheerful canopy overhead.
Funded by city centre businesses, via the Preston Business Improvement District, the aim is to encourage people to spend time in the area and help drive visitors to explore not only the fabulous display but also the wider city centre offer. By combining creativity, sustainability and community, Preston’s Canopy of Colourpromises to add a joyful new landmark to the city’s high street and a reason for residents and visitors alike to look up and enjoy the view.
John Boydell, chair of Preston BID, said: “Preston’s Canopy of Colour is a fantastic example of how we can reimagine our high street to create something vibrant, welcoming, and memorable for everyone who visits. By combining striking design with sustainable materials, this installation not only enhances the look and feel of Fishergate but also reflects our commitment to supporting local businesses and the environment.
“We hope it will encourage more people to spend time in the city centre, explore everything on offer and enjoy a unique experience right in the heart of Preston.”
Installation of the project will begin in the week commencing, 20th April, with the display remaining in situ until the winter months.
Adrian Phillips, Chief Executive of Preston City Council said: “Preston’s Canopy of Colour is an exciting project to inject additional life and vibrancy into our main high street this summer. The Council fully supports Preston BID’s initiative that brings people, both old and new, into the city centre to enjoy what we have to offer.
“We also welcome that the Canopy of Colour is environmentally friendly and supports the city’s Green Pledge campaign.”
Joe Eyden, Head of Marketing, at Blachere Illumination UK, said: “Blachere Illumination UK is proud to be delivering one of the largest summer schemes in the UK, right here in Preston!
“Working collaboratively with Preston BID, the installation has been carefully designed to transform the space with colour, creativity, and light, creating an atmospheric experience throughout the summer months.
“Importantly, our combined commitment to sustainability means the scheme incorporates responsibly sourced, durable and 100% recyclable materials, designed for reuse and lasting impact.
“As The Preston Weekender approaches, it’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase the scheme and we’re looking forward to the official opening and seeing the community come together to enjoy it.”
The official ‘opening’ of the Canopy of Colour will take place at 6.30pm on 30th April, with the SpudBros, the StreetMonkeys and members of the city’s business & public communities – everyone’s welcome to attend and support!
In addition to the Canopy of Colour, the BID will be launching a competition for businesses to decorate their frontages to tie in with the installation. The competition, which will launch in June, will be judged by members of the public, and see the most popular businesses sharing a £5,000 prize fund.