Whilst this new health centre offered a brighter, more pleasant environment than before, some patients were worried that the move meant that the GP practices were all merging, and were sad to see the old surgeries being moved.

A programme of community based sculpture and ‘wayfinding’ artwork increased the local peoples’ ownership of the centre, made them feel comfortable and helped them find their way around.

Each doctor was assigned a colour and an icon, with inspiration coming from the sustainability of the new building, and we designed the wayfinding system in conjunction with the local youth council, and hand crafted it using sustainably certified timber.

It was crucial to ensure that this public art scheme fitted in seamlessly with its surroundings, and inspiration was taken from the building's cutting-edge architecture, whilst helping to add a real vibrancy to the interior of these often clinical spaces.

Now the centre is open, and the feedback has been excellent, with staff and patients alike attesting to the success of the project. Staff member Peter told us, "the way finding aspect to the art worked really well, he said that people seemed to really like it and the public do tend to touch it when they first enter the building."

In May 2011, Liverpool FC captain Steven Gerrard came down to visit the Blue Bell as part of a launch event. The local children who'd worked on the artwork were invited, and apparently he grew up in the local area. Not only did it provide a great photo opportunity, but the kids really enjoyed it and loved having their work admired by a Premiership footballer!