Plan to expand large Scarborough mural on Grade-II listed building

​Plans to extend the large outdoor mural at 3 West Square, facing Westborough, have been submitted by North Yorkshire Council.

​The scheme would see the painting of the gable-end elevation and the application of a hand-painted mural.

​The existing mural is 8m wide and 11m high, while the extension would be 6.5m wide and around 4m high.

​North Yorkshire Council said the aim of the proposed works is to enhance the town centre public realm by fostering a “stronger sense of civic pride”.

​“The mural will serve as an impactful arrival feature, designed to respect and complement the surrounding historic environment.

"These proposed improvements will support passive wayfinding, enrich the visual character of the town centre and embed a cultural narrative that celebrates Scarborough’s heritage and environmental assets,” according to submitted plans.

​At a meeting of Scarborough Town Council’s community and place committee on Wednesday, April 29, members said they were in favour of the proposal.

​The proposed works directly address the prominent public realm around Scarborough Station, which is an area with high pedestrian footfall and strong townscape legibility, NYC said.

​The surrounding streetscape is characterised by 19th and early 20th Century commercial and civic buildings of brick and render with traditional proportions, vertical window rhythms and strong parapet lines.

​“The proposal is informed by extensive community engagement through the Let’s Talk Scarborough and Pride in Place consultations,” according to the authority.

​NYC added: “Residents consistently identified the need for investment to enhance the town centre’s visual quality, with support for additional wall murals as part of the townscape enhancement.

​“After completion, the mural will improve passive wayfinding and arrival legibility from the station without affecting movement or inclusivity.”