Perth Voice Interactive

PROGRESS STREET in Morley is getting a funky make-over.

The highlight of the upgrade is a cool wall mural by local artist Steve Buckle at pocket park.

Cr Michelle Sutherland, who wants Bayswater council to set aside $80,000 for urban art in the city, says she’s “thrilled”.

“It makes the area so much more liveable and vibrant,” she says.

“As far as I am know it is the first for Morley. I want us to catch-up with Mt Lawley and Vincent who have excelled in street art.”

The Progress Street works also include the planting of shade canopy trees, the cleaning and repair of verge paving and funky planter seaters.

Local councillor Chris Cornish says art is good for business.

“The artwork is bright, prominent and a great addition to both Progress Street and Morley,” he says.

“Public artwork is important because it rejuvenates an area and sets a positive atmosphere.

“Research has shown that public art does have an economic benefit to local businesses.”

Bayswater mayor Sylvan Albert says the works were commissioned after surveying business owners who thought an upgrade would make the area more popular.

by STEPHEN POLLOCK