A famous cat known for befriending Metrolink passengers in Chorlton has been immortalised on a new mural at the tram stop.
Batman, known by many as the ‘Chorlton tram cat’, features prominently on the colourful artwork commissioned by the civic society Chorlton Voice which was formally unveiled today.
Chorlton tram stop’s lift shaft has been painted by Manchester-based artist Caroline Daly to coincide with the Chorlton Arts Festival, and also features green spaces and birds to reflect local biodiversity.
After several years of planning, the design of the mural was chosen by members of Chorlton Voice and a steering group of local community groups, traders, councillors and council officers.
Funding for the artwork, which also received the approval of Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), was also provided through the Manchester City Council Neighbourhood Investment Fund.
The mural was officially unveiled by Withington MP Jeff Smith alongside Danny Vaughan, TfGM’s Head of Metrolink, Chorlton Voice chair Carolyn Kagan, Withington MP Jeff Smith and local councillors Eve Holt, Joanna Midgley and Matthew Benham.
Danny Vaughan said: “We have worked very closely with Chorlton Voice on this project over several years, so I’m delighted to see this brilliant artwork finally come to fruition.
“We know that Batman the cat has become quite the Metrolink celebrity in recent years, so it’s great to see him taking centre stage on a piece of art which I’m sure will be enjoyed by passengers.”
Carolyn Kagan added: “We first raised the possibility of a mural with Metrolink back in 2014, and we’re thrilled that it has finally been made possible thanks to a partnership between Chorlton Voice, TfGM, Manchester City Council and local community groups and traders.
“We had some great proposals from artists and are delighted with the work that Caroline Daly has done, and so many people have already commented on what a lovely change from the grey concrete it is.
“The mural will be a focal point for Chorlton and contribute to a strong sense of community, and we hope there will be many more Metrolink lift shaft murals.”
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