City of Westminster (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Local names appear on bus stops as North Paddington launches a new arts festival in Westminster, featuring dozens of events and an international food court.
To highlight those who have made contributions to their communities, a set of 19 lighted images of “Bus Stop Heroes” were placed at stops in North Paddington, Westminster. Brenda, a local poet and dedicated volunteer; Deujean, the founder of the Harrow Road Soup Kitchen; and Eldora, the deputy director of Paddington Arts, who was praised for her steadfast commitment to the youth of North Paddington, were among others who received the star treatment.
The North Paddington Fringe Festival – London’s newest arts event – launched on 16 June and ran for three weeks in local venues such as hubs, libraries, and the recently refurbished Maida Hill Market.
More than 20 events were staged, including:
- Poetry recitals
- Art and cultural exhibitions displaying local Windrush heroes
- A film competition inviting residents to create short reels showcasing their favourite parts of North Paddington, with the winner receiving a camera and one-on-one videography training with an industry expert
- Community walks
More than a hundred locals attended the festival’s TV-style cook-off at Tamplin Mews Gardens. With a variety of delectable options like grilled pineapple, tarte tatin, and barbecued chicken, the menu represented the diversity of North Paddington’s populations. The Funky Fusion crew deserves congratulations for winning the cook-off.
Due to its great success, the festival will return the following year with additional acts and displays. It is a part of North Paddington’s growing arts scene, and the Council’s efforts to encourage the region’s creative economy are further supported by the area’s designation as a Creative Enterprise Zone by the Mayor of London, who acknowledged its strong cultural legacy.
Cllr Cara Sanquest, Cabinet Member for Communities, said:
“The communities which make up North Paddington know this is an area with a wonderfully diverse spirit and dynamic creative scene – so it’s entirely fitting it gets its own dedicated arts festival to reflect that.
So often local people do great work for their communities and don’t get recognised for it. I’m proud that the Bus Stop Heroes campaign made sure people travelling around North Paddington got to know who these community stars were! The reception for this Fringe Festival has been really positive so Westminster City Council is already looking at re-commissioning it for 2026 – so mark it in your diary.”
How does the festival aim to boost community engagement and local pride?
The festival highlights the unique aspects of North Paddington’s culture and heritage, promoting a collective identity. Activities such as performances, art workshops, and family-friendly events help residents connect deeply with their local traditions and environment, reinforcing a sense of belonging.
By involving local people directly—such as featuring their names lighting up bus stops—the festival actively fosters ownership and pride in their neighborhood. This participatory approach enhances residents’ emotional investment and solidarity within the community.
With thematic weekends focusing on biodiversity, health, wellbeing, and creativity, the festival links community engagement to broader social and environmental issues, inspiring collective action and awareness that can unify and empower the community.