Fears for the ‘BHS murals’
MOVES are being made to secure the future of a unique set of murals depicting Stockport’s history after they were put under threat by the closure of BHS.
The five mosaic murals are on the side of the store’s building facing onto an alleyway between Merseyway and Princes Street.
On them are pictures of knights, clergymen and farmers, and Councillor Philip Harding told a central area committee meeting that they need to be listed with English Heritage.
There are fears that when BHS closes and the building is redeveloped the mosaics could be destroyed and lost forever.
Coun Harding told the meeting: “The west facing gable has 20 century murals on it about the history of Stockport.
“They are the only murals in Stockport of this type that I am aware of.”
A resolution was agreed to ask conservation officers at the council to make contact with English Heritage to get the murals listed.
Coun Sheila Bailey added: “Should there be redevelopment the mural can be removed. The important thing is any future development doesn’t come in with bulldozers and knock it all down.
“It is an integral part of Stockport’s heritage and it would be a shame to lose it.”
Bosses at the retail giant announced earlier this month that all of its 163 branches were to shut.
The one in Merseyway which is one of a minority that are still profitable - has between 40 to 50 employees.
It is thought the store will close when it runs out of stock, in the meantime goods are being sold with up to 70 per cent off.
Stockport Council now owns Merseyway but not the freehold on the BHS store site.
Councillor Kate Butler, executive member for the economy, said: “Any loss of jobs is extremely sad news and my heart goes out to the members of staff in Stockport and the 11,000 people nationwide who have been caused such huge uncertainty.
“I can assure all those affected that Stockport Council will continue to actively work with Jobcentre Plus to provide BHS staff with the support they need to find new jobs or other opportunities.
“I will be exploring innovative new ways in which the council can help boost our high streets as well as lobbying the government to do more to reflect trends in the 21st century retail sector.”
‘They are the only murals in Stockport of this type that I am aware of’