Beloved St Annes Square mosaics set for restoration

The much-loved mosaics that bring colour and character to St Annes Square are set for a fantastic new lease of life, as specialist artist Tracey Cartledge prepares to carefully restore all three pieces this September.

Work begins on Monday 7 September with the St Annes Arts Arena Mosaic in the amphitheatre, created by artist Gary Drostle in 2005. Attention will then turn to the Mermaid Mosaics on the southern side of the Square, to ensure that the popular St Annes Artisan Market can go ahead undisturbed on Saturday 12 September. These two mosaics were commissioned by Fylde Council in 2003 as part of a redevelopment of the town centre and created by artist Stephen Charnock. Each phase of work is expected to take up to two weeks depending on weather conditions.

Tracey, who has spent over ten years restoring historic mosaics alongside a 30-year career in public art, has secured approval from both original artists to carry out the restoration, ensuring their vision is preserved for future generations. Small areas of fencing will be in place around each site while work takes place, though residents and visitors can expect no disruption to access across the Square.

Councillor Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council, commented:
“The mosaics have become a familiar feature in St Annes Square, adding colour and interest to the space. Restoring them now ensures they play their part in the wider regeneration work, complementing the major improvements already underway and supporting our long‑term plan to create a more vibrant, attractive and resilient town centre for the future.”

The restoration forms part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to protecting and celebrating the borough’s public art and heritage, following a £3.13 million investment in St Annes Square in 2025.