We’re delighted to announce that Merseyside based artist Leo Fitzmaurice has been selected through an open call to create a bold new artwork for the third platform at Salford Crescent Railway Station. Jointly commissioned by the University of Salford Art Collection and Network Rail, the artwork will celebrate the Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal that used to run through the location.
The canal opened in 1797 and was extended to the River Irwell in 1808. It was mainly used to carry coal. The canal company then built the Manchester to Bolton Railway, which opened in 1838 and followed a similar route. We don’t want to give away too much in advance, however Leo’s artwork will highlight places along the canal route from Bolton to Salford. To hear his approach to the commission watch here:
Leo Fitzmaurice outside Salford Crescent Station
The artwork is being delivered as part of extensive improvements to the University of Salford campus through the Campus Connectivity Plan, together with Network Rail Northern and The Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal Society. The third platform will formally open in winter alongside the finished artwork.
The images below show the historic Bolton & Bury Canal, and were taken around Windsor Bridge and Salford Crescent station’s current location.
Images courtesy of Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal Society.