Tunnel of Love

The stunning transformation of the dilapidated Alloway Railway Tunnel in Ayrshire is really taking shape, thanks to support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

It was just over a year ago that a group of local volunteers decided to breathe new life into the tunnel, which lies just a stone’s through away from the birthplace of Scotland’s national bard Robert Burns.

With the help of acclaimed artist Chris Rutterford, who completed a similar tunnel revamp in Edinburgh, the Alloway Railway Tunnel Project will see the 150-metre-long trail filled with murals, hand-painted by the local community. Showcasing stories of Ayrshire’s history including Robert Burns, it’s hoped the tunnel will become a colourful visitor attraction and community space. Postcode Lottery players have raised £46,450 for the project so far.

Chris Rutterford said: “I am so delighted the mural is being embraced and so loved by the community. I’ve now worked alongside nearly 2000 amateur artists, all involved in hands on painting, together we are giving this forgotten tunnel a new lease of life. This project is rapidly becoming a real hidden treasure and a must-see beacon of optimism and positivity on the Ayrshire cultural landscape."

Ron Ireland, Chair of Alloway Railway Tunnel Project, said, “Reaching the halfway point wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our volunteers, supporters and funders. We’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone for getting us this far and we are delighted and very grateful for this funding from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, which will help us move onto the next exciting stage. 

“Chris is the passion behind the painting. He’s gone above and beyond, and this latest section of mural was painted alongside hundreds of people in the local area. It shows what can be done when the community works together.”

Laura Chow, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “The transformation of Alloway Railway Tunnel so far has been wonderful to see and we are proud our players are helping bring the project to life, for the benefit of the whole community. We can’t wait to see what lies ahead.”

The Alloway Railway Tunnel project is due to be completed in 2025.