Fair Ways to Unveil Phoenix Installation at Gunwharf Quays
Fair Ways will officially unveil its Phoenix installation at Gunwharf Quays on Friday 29th May at 1:15pm, marking another important milestone in the growing Fair Ways Phoenix Journey project.
The unveiling event will take place outside The Old Customs House and will feature speeches from Steve Pitt, Amanda Martin, a representative from Gunwharf Quays and Fair Ways CEO Mac McHugh.
The Phoenix installation has already generated significant public interest following a successful live carving event hosted at Gunwharf Quays in April. During the event, members of the public were able to watch the artwork being created live, whilst learning more about the inspiration and meaning behind the Fair Ways Phoenix Journey.
The completed Phoenix installation will now become a permanent feature at Gunwharf Quays, providing ongoing visibility for both the Phoenix Journey and Fair Ways within one of Portsmouth’s most prominent public locations.
The Fair Ways Phoenix Journey is an inspiring outdoor walking trail in Portsmouth designed to celebrate stories of resilience, hope and the achievements of care-experienced people. Set within the beautiful surroundings of Hilsea Lines and forming part of the wider Hilsea Lido redevelopment, the Phoenix Journey blends nature, art and storytelling into a meaningful route for families, schools and the wider community. The full trail, featuring a series of beautifully handcrafted wooden installations representing powerful narratives of growth and perseverance, will open in late 2026.
The Phoenix installation is a striking symbol of strength and renewal, rising from the ashes to signify new beginnings, making it a particularly fitting emblem for a project that highlights the strength and potential of care-experienced young people.
Fair Ways is an award-winning children’s services charity based in the south of England, delivering fostering, education, residential and family services. The organisation cares for hundreds of children and young people each year and works to celebrate their stories, challenge perceptions and grow a compassionate, resilient and trauma-informed community.
Mac McHugh, CEO of Fair Ways, said: "The Phoenix Journey represents resilience, hope, and the belief that every young person deserves the opportunity to grow, recover, and thrive. Seeing the community engage so positively with the project has been incredibly powerful, and we are proud to have this installation become a permanent part of Portsmouth.
Yvonne Clay, Centre Director at Gunwharf Quays, commented: “The live carving event in April was a huge success, so we are delighted to officially unveil the Phoenix as it becomes a permanent fixture here at Gunwharf Quays. We encourage our guests to come and see the carving on display over the coming months and to learn more about the inspiring Phoenix Journey.”
Members of the public are invited to attend the unveiling event and join Fair Ways and partners in celebrating the next chapter of the Phoenix Journey.
Event Details: Location: Phoenix installation, outside The Old Custom’s House, Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth Dates: Friday 29th May 2026 Times: 1:15pm – 2pm
For more information about Fair Ways, the Fair Ways Phoenix Journey and how to get involved, please visit www.fairways.co/phoenix-journey.
Media Enquiries: Paul Moran Director of IT, Communications and Projects chris.bell@fairways.co
Fair Ways Charity hello@fairways.co 02380 230400 www.fairways.co
