Twickenham’s new ecosystem restoration mural unveiled at Regal House

A striking new 30-metre-high mural celebrating the importance of local biodiversity and freshwater ecosystems has been unveiled at Regal House in Twickenham.

Residents, councillors, and the Deputy Mayor of Richmond joined representatives from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and non-profit Street Art for Mankind on Sunday 9 March 2025 to mark the debut of the public artwork.

Titled 'N6tur3' and created by Italian artist Vesod, the mural is part of the global #EcosystemRestorationMural series by Street Art for Mankind, in partnership with the UNEP, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and funding partner e.on. The series aims to raise awareness for the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, a global effort to halt, prevent and reverse the loss of nature.

The first of its kind in the UK, N6tur3 blends futurism with classical art, featuring key species and landscapes in Richmond upon Thames. A central willow tree stands alongside regional wildlife, including the water vole - recently reintroduced to Crane Park - while the depiction of London as a river reflects the borough’s own prominent waterways, like the Thames and Crane, envisioning a world where urban life and natural environments flourish together.

Twickenham Riverside ward councillors were brought in by creators to help shape the mural’s vision, ensuring it reflects the deep local connection between people and nature.

Cllr Julia Neden-Watts, Chair of the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee, said:

"As one of London’s greenest boroughs - supporting a range of different habitats and species - protecting and enhancing our natural spaces and biodiversity is a key priority shared by the Council, our partners and our residents. With 2025 marking 20 years since Richmond’s first Biodiversity Action Plan was launched, it feels very timely that this mural helps bring to life our strong commitment to building on its legacy for future generations."

Cllr James Chard, Vice-Chair of the Transport and Air Quality Committee, added:

"Art and creativity play a powerful role in reconnecting people with nature—a concept that is already well-embedded in our community through the Cultural Reforesting programme at Orleans House Gallery. This June, our Arts & Ideas Festival will explore this collaboration further, and I encourage everyone to get involved."

Visitors can scan a QR code near the mural to access Behind the Wall®, a free app offering an audio guide, the story behind ecosystem restoration, expert insights and commentary from the artist.