New mural depicting historic scene set for entrance to Peterborough city centre street

A new mural inspired by a historic street scene has been planned in the centre of Peterborough.

The mural, which has now been approved, will be located on the large side of the Head 2 Head Barbers shop at 50 Cowgate which faces out on to Priestgate and the entrance to Cowgate, close to the Queensgate roundabout.

The wall is currently empty apart from the words ‘Cowgate’ but will now be transformed by a new mural inspired by a historic photograph which depicts the street at its peak as part of a historic shopping parade in 1908.

50 Cowgate is a Grade II Listed Building located in the City Centre Conservation Area and dates back to the 18th century; therefore planning permission had to be sought for the artwork.

In its application, Peterborough Positive- the city's Business Improvement District (BID) campaign- said: “The proposed artwork is a suitable response to the site as the historical image is fitting to the listed building status of the property.

"The colour scheme is also subtle and in keeping with the building’s heritage.

"The artwork will enhance the attractiveness of the whole street by evoking its past glory.

"This proposal is most welcome and will help people to orientate themselves and will allow an attractive approach into the city centre – resulting in a public benefit.”

The mural will be created by local artist Nathan Murdoch, who has created artworks on several sites in and around the city centre already, including former toilet blocks on the Embankment and Stanley Park as well in the Cowgate underpass.