‘What one thing springs to mind when someone says Mansbridge to you?’ That simple question was asked to locals and sparked the creation of a permanent, community-designed mosaic celebrating 100 years of shared history, identity and pride across the Mansbridge estate. Created by and for local people, the artwork captures what Mansbridge means to those who call it home.
The mosaic was created as part of the Mansbridge Heritage Project, led by Abri, a large social housing provider with 59,000 homes and community assets across the south of England. The project focused on building strong, connected communities alongside high‑quality homes.
Mansbridge residents told Abri they wanted a lasting legacy to mark the estate’s centenary. The permanent mosaic was co‑designed with the community and brought to life by Will Rosie, a Southampton‑based artist. Inspired by residents’ ideas, historic photographs and shared memories, the design reflects recurring themes of green spaces, distinctive architecture and the strong sense of community that defines Mansbridge.
Cara Headon, Community Development Officer at Abri, has been heavily involved in the Mansbridge Heritage Project and the 100 year celebrations. She said:
“It was a privilege to work so closely with the community and Will to create a fantastic piece of art that really captures the spirit of Mansbridge. The mosaic is an expression of local memory and identity, and has already become a focal point for conversation, connection and pride across the estate.”
The finished artwork highlights what residents associate most with Mansbridge, including the estate’s green spaces and natural surroundings. This reflects the original vision of architect Herbert Collins, who designed Mansbridge to feel like countryside living despite being within the city.
Caroline Nokes, MP for Romsey and Southampton North, recently joined Abri’s Helen Wilson, Regional Managing Director (south) on a tour of Mansbridge and to see the new mosaic.
Speaking about the mosaic and Mansbridge, Caroline said: “Seeing the Mansbridge mosaic was a wonderful reminder of the strength of community that exists across the estate. It is a fitting way to mark 100 years of Mansbridge and to celebrate the people who have shaped its history and continue to make it such a great place to live."
The mosaic is one outcome of a year‑long Heritage Project delivered in collaboration with the University of Southampton’s Institute for Arts and Humanities (SIAH). The project explored Mansbridge’s history through walking tours, memory‑sharing sessions, creative workshops, school activities, oral history interviews and a large public celebration event.
Dr Joseph Owen, Research Fellow at the University of Southampton and Co-investigator on the Mansbridge Heritage Project, said:
“The Mansbridge Heritage Project has demonstrated how local heritage can strengthen community connections in places. By interrogating and foregrounding different types of heritage, some of which held specific meanings for residents, the project generated new expressions of pride, particularly in people's homes. The mosaic is a good example of these shared values being brought to life.”