Council row erupts after iconic tourist pub forced to remove 'eyesore' toucan mural

Durham County Council wrote to the business at the end of July to say the artwork was considered "unlawful" because it was "classed as an advertisement" but no application for consent of this had been made.

In a planning and heritage statement submitted on behalf of the pub, it said that while it considered the development to be a mural rather than an advertisement, staff "acknowledge the council's request to rectify the matter" by submitting a retrospective application.

The application said: "The main element of the mural comprises of a toucan with a drink atop its beak, with the slogan ‘Lovely day for a…’, set amongst a background illustrated within the Durham riverside and cathedral.

"The remainder of the mural provides a picturesque illustration of the verdant Durham riverside along with depictions of the Prince Bishop River Cruiser and rowing boats.

"The mural is part of a wider campaign across the country which sees murals painted with iconic imagery combined with local elements to celebrate the inclusive spirit of shared experiences, fostering a sense of community and belonging which resonates with both locals and visitors."

In a letter to The Boat Club on November 25, the council's planning team said it refused permission for the artwork, making reference to its "stark colour".

It added: "The Local Planning Authority considers that by reason of its excessive size, scale and stark colour, the mural style advertisement is harmful to the visual amenity of the surrounding locality, the significance of the locally listed Boathouse Inn, and fails to preserve or enhance the special character and significance of the Durham City Conservation Area."

Customer Justin Hemming, who wrote in support of The Boat Club's application, said the mural "adds some colour to the view from the bridge, helping highlight an old building in front of a horrible modern development".

He wrote: "It in no way affects the world heritage site, or the view of the Cathedral, as it faces the opposite direction.

"It will also attract people to an area with several hospitality businesses, all in need of support at this time."

Fellow resident Robert Lawshaw said he felt the mural was "in keeping with other pub signs in the Durham City area".

He wrote: "There is a long tradition of murals being used in advertising for businesses and pubs on UK high streets, both in County Durham and more widely, and this mural can be viewed in that light.

"It is not particularly more prominent than the previous advertising on the pub building.

"Furthermore, the context of the view presented is important.

"The mural is visible when turned away from Durham's historic centre and Cathedral.

"Behind it is the modern Prince Bishop's Shopping Centre. In that context, the mural is not disrupting an otherwise historic or protected viewpoint.

"Rather, it adds colour and character, and I support its presence."

The business was told it had eight weeks from the date of refusal to lodge an appeal against the decision.