A derelict shop has been transformed into Ponders End’s first temporary art gallery, opening on Friday.

The former bathroom tile shop, in High Street, which lay empty for more than a year, has been the focus of a regeneration project run by the North London Arts Partnership and an urban regeneration company based in Wood Green, Urban Futures.

Robert Prague, of Urban Futures, said: “We completely revamped and redecorated the shop. Before we got there it was really awful, with rubbish everywhere.

“The idea for the gallery was more about the shop just sitting there doing nothing, which looked horrible. It was an eyesore on the street and we have turned it into something beautiful local people could enjoy.

“Regeneration always starts with the arts and then it goes on, but it is really good for the area because there was nothing there in terms of artwork.”

The gallery is part of the A1010 regeneration project, supported by the Outer London Fund and Enfield Council.

The gallery, which will stay open until March, will display a variety of work, including sculptures and jewellery from artists in the area.

The Mayor of Enfield Christiana During will attend the launch on Friday.

The launch of the gallery will take place at 253 High Street, Ponders End, from 6pm.