CONCRETE pillars near Bournemouth's town centre tennis courts will be transformed into 'creative works of art' – but some neighbours say the project will "look awful".

This month, the Upside Gallery project will paint the pillars supporting the A338 Wessex Way over the Gardens, creating a new outdoor mural.

The initiative has been dreamed up by Bournemouth-based creative agency Paintshop Studio and is supported by Arts Council England.

Project curator Rick Walker said the scheme will transform the pillars, which are some nine metres tall. The bridge itself was built in the 1970s.

Mr Walker said the "shadow created" by the bridge makes it an "uninviting space in the award-winning Gardens".

"We are very proud of this project and to be working with such an incredible line up of artists, from all across the country, helping to transform this space into something truly amazing," he said.

"The artists have been chosen to showcase the talent and diverse range of styles found in the graffiti and street art movements and to present the art form in a positive light.

"This project has been created with a genuine love for the area and passion to create something for the whole community to enjoy."

However, there have been objections to the scheme from residents.

One told the Daily Echo called the scheme "graffiti-slash-art".

"Why why are they doing this? It's going to be 30ft tall and look awful," he said.

"The local residents have contacted the council but no reply."

Eleven artists will begin working on the pillars from today, Monday. The project is set to be complete by Sunday, September 22.

Paintshop Studio designed and implemented the widely-recognised four-storey mural in Lansdowne Road, which highlights local creative and sporting talent. The agency is also responsible for changes to the St Swithun's underpass which connects Bournemouth train station with the town centre.

For more information, visit upsidegallery.co.uk