New public art brings Chatham Pumping Station to life

Medway Development Company (MDC) is thrilled to share that Nicole Mollett and José Den Hartog were chosen as the artists for the exciting new public art project at Chatham Pumping Station. The project was managed by FrancisKnight with assistance from Medway Council’s Culture Team and is part of the wider Chatham Waterfront regeneration.

This artwork has been commissioned by Medway Development Company, supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and with kind permission from Southern Water.

Chatham Waterfront is transforming. A multi-million-pound programme is bringing new homes, beautiful public spaces and stronger connections to the River Medway. At the heart of this change is the Pumping Station, a striking 1960s building with a bold red brick façade which has become a standout landmark in this growing neighbourhood. The new artwork has turned the Pumping Station and the public plaza outside it into something truly special, a place where art, history and community come together.

“The Pumping Station sits within the new Chatham Waterfront development in the heart of Chatham - so it is great news that the artists for this new public art installation have been announced. I think it is fantastic that it will recognise Medway’s maritime heritage and close relationship with the water and I look forward to being able to see it come to life.”Cllr Naushabah Khan, Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Housing and Property

“This commission has been a key part of bringing Chatham Waterfront to life. The artwork not only enhances the Pumping Station as a landmark, but also reflects the history, identity and spirit of our community. Nicole and José’s work will leave a lasting legacy for residents and visitors to enjoy for years to come.”Lewis Small, Managing Director, Medway Development Company

Nicole and José created a large ceramic tiled mural for the Pumping Station that celebrates the important role of water in Chatham and Medway. The artwork explores:

• Medway’s maritime heritage
• The River Medway’s ecology
• The brilliance of waterworks engineering
• The personal and historical connections the community has with water

The design draws on research from the Medway Archives, the Greenwich Maritime Museum and the Historic Dockyard, making it a truly meaningful piece rooted in local history.The public art commission has turned the Pumping Station into a vibrant cultural landmark for Chatham Waterfront - a welcoming and inspiring place that reflects the spirit of the area and the community it serves.