Robert Plant mural unveiled in his birthplace

A colourful mural depicting Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant has been unveiled in his birthplace of West Bromwich.

The mural, in a subway off Roebuck Lane, was created by Midlands-based artist Rob Fenton with the help of pupils from Holy Trinity C of E Primary School.

Pupils gave their perspective on what makes the town special, leading to the artwork to weave together local elements such as the Pavilion at Dartmouth Park, Oak House Park and Museum, and the Hawthorns stadium.

These references sit alongside a portrait of Plant and lyrics from Led Zeppelin's song Kashmir: "Let the sun beat down upon my face with stars to fill my dream".

Sharing his reflections on the mural, the Zeppelin star said: "From a time and a place of happy inspiration long ago."

The mural is part of a £65,500 scheme funded by National Highways to make an M5 underpass feel brighter and more welcoming.

National Highways worked with Walk Wheel Cycle Trust to fund the mural in the subway, which is part of Route 5 on the National Cycle Network, in a bid to reduce congestion, improve air quality, and benefit people's health.

Other improvements were made to a crossing, a shared path and lighting was updated.

Sandwell Council also supported the project by removing large barriers to help make the path more accessible.

Fenton, who ran workshops with the children to develop the artwork, said: "Local pride emerged strongly through my chats with the pupils with references to Robert Plant and Led Zeppelin, alongside architecture, industry, music, sport, and nature.

"These conversations helped shape a visual narrative that reflects both heritage and identity, rooted in the lived experiences and observations of the young participants.

"All the elements they shared has formed a layered and vibrant mural that celebrates the area's past and present, while capturing the energy and aspirations of its younger generation."

Freda Rashdi, head of customer journeys at National Highways, added: "The underpass forms part of a key route in Sandwell linking residential areas with offices and shops.

"In improving the area with better lighting and a new path, we have opened the route up for more people to feel safe walking or cycling to their destinations.

"It is now more accessible and welcoming for the whole community and will give residents a greater choice in how they travel, while showing greater pride in their local heritage and identity."

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