THE MANAGEMENT of a local community centre has expressed disapproval over a wall painting created by children on the Mount Estate, bearing the message “Drugs Destroys Dreams.”

Mount Community Centre, in response to the artwork, released a statement asserting that the repainting of the “Graffiti wall” at the estate’s entrance was in no way associated with the community center. In fact, an official complaint has been lodged with the Dyfed-Powys police regarding the content, and the concerns have been reported to the PCC (Police and Crime Commissioner). The centre now awaits a response from the authorities. Furthermore, the centre is compiling a list of estate residents who oppose the message being promoted and believe it negatively affects the perception of their community.

To show support in their endeavor to have the artwork removed, individuals are encouraged to visit the center on any Thursday between 11.30 am and 3 pm.

Carol Stevens, a Milford Haven resident, commended the youths and the officers involved in creating the graffiti wall, acknowledging their voluntary efforts. She applauded the strong and clear message conveyed by the artwork, warning against drug usage. Stevens expressed her support for the youth of the town and praised their accomplishments.

Jonathan Brewer, another resident, expressed astonishment at the creativity displayed in the artwork. He viewed it as a powerful yet confrontational statement that highlights the harsh realities and dangers faced by today’s youth. Brewer acknowledged the presence of a gun in the painting, which some may find concerning.

However, he interpreted the artwork as a reflection of the younger generation’s perspective, their concerns, and their means of expressing their thoughts and emotions through art. Brewer cautioned against hasty judgment and urged the community to provide support and listen to the youth, emphasizing the potential harm in destroying their artwork, which could stifle their dreams and voices. He advocated for celebration rather than canceling the work produced by these talented young individuals.

Bill Towler, a resident living on the Mount Estate, expressed frustration on social media over the current state of affairs. Towler pointed out the existence of at least five drug dens in their vicinity and criticized the lack of attention from the police and local council regarding this issue. He deemed the message on the wall disgraceful and suggested that it be changed to reflect a consensus within the community.

Nerys Butland, responding to the controversy on Facebook, shared a personal perspective on the matter. Having experienced the detrimental effects of drugs on her own life and family, she strongly supported the message conveyed by the wall painting. Butland emphasized that drugs undeniably destroy dreams and cause immeasurable harm. She viewed it as a positive development that children were being exposed to this crucial message. Regarding the images depicted, Butland noted instances of needles, foil, and beer cans littering the estate. She asserted that those who turn a blind eye to such problems should consider the broader issues faced daily within the community. Butland suggested focusing efforts on providing AA/drug rehabilitation sessions or organizing courses to keep people occupied, such as adult learning classes, citing the Hubberston center as an example. Furthermore, she clarified that while she no longer resides in the area, she was intimately familiar with its ongoing struggles, which may have worsened over the past 20 years.

The controversy surrounding the graffiti wall has ignited a passionate debate within the community, as various perspectives clash over the message it conveys and its potential impact on the residents of the Mount Estate.