Striking murals have been painted at the construction site of a new housing estate.

Thanet District Council (TDC) has partnered with Margate-based organisation Rise Up Clean Up to decorate the wooden hoardings surrounding the land at the town’s Dane Valley.

Eventually, 49 affordable social homes will be built on four brownfield sites. The others are in Tomlin Drive in Margate, and Clements Road and Staner Court in Ramsgate.

Seven local artists painted the hoardings surrounding the Dane Valley development, which had previously been defaced with graffiti and tagging.

Residents and the local community were involved, suggesting themes and taking part in selecting the colour palette for the works.

Some eight murals were created, with messages of ocean awareness and sustainability.

It is hoped that further artworks will be created at the other three sites later this year.

The council is exploring ways in which local schools and colleges could be involved in any future murals on other council locations.

Building is due to start at all four sites this month, with completion expected in late 2025 and early 2026.

The new homes will be rented to people on the council’s housing register, including those leaving temporary accommodation.

Cllr Helen Whitehead, cabinet member for housing, said: “Good housing provision is far more than creating buildings; it is creating homes and communities.

“Being able to enjoy your surroundings is essential. Using all stages of our construction to produce art and community projects, alongside providing genuinely affordable housing simply makes sense.

“It also ensures that our housing is truly linked to local people.”

Cllr Steve Albon, cabinet member for cleansing and coastal services, said: “Now that the Dane Valley hoardings are decorated with these fantastic artworks, I sincerely hope that other people will be put off covering them with the kind of tags that make an area look unloved and uncared for.

“This initiative shows what can be achieved by working with local talent. A huge thank you to Rise Up Clean Up, the artists, and everyone involved.”