A popular mural based on hit TV series Derry Girls has caused controversy after a public bar which the mural sits on constructed a beer garden awning which partially covers the artwork.
The Derry Girls mural was created by a local not-for-profit company, UV Arts, and is located on the side of Badger’s Bar and Restaurant, opposite the Foyleside shopping centre.
Located on Orchard Street, the mural features the cast of the show, an award winning comedy series which follows a group of five secondary school students.
Planning permission for the awning was granted to the bar in December 2022, with no objections received during its application.
However, the construction has caused a debate on social media after being shared by BBC Radio Foyle, with some describing it as a “tourist attraction ruined”, while others say it is the bar’s land to do with as it pleases.
When contacted by the Irish News, Badgers Bar and Restaurant declined to comment.
A spokesperson for UV Arts said it had planned to speak with the bar owners to get clarification on the work.
Written by Derry’s Lisa McGee, the first series of the show was broadcast on Channel 4 in January 2018, followed by two further successful series, with thousands visiting the Orchard Street mural every year for photograph opportunities.
