Redrawn mural designs for Ossett town centre approved
Previous designs were scrapped last year after dozens of objections
Last updated 23rd Jan 2026
New designs for a mural to be displayed in Ossett town centre have been approved.
Previous images were withdrawn in April last year after they received more than 150 objections from members of the public, with one describing them as “garish.”
A fresh planning application was then submitted for artwork featuring images celebrating the town’s landmarks and symbols following a public consultation.
The designs, by West Yorkshire based artist Shiraaz Ali, include Ossett’s town hall, war memorial, Gawthorpe water tower and Trinity Church.
Local wildlife, including a peregrine falcon, is also celebrated in the work.
Hannah Appleyard, the council’s cabinet member for culture, leisure and sport, previously said: “The mural will be a celebration of everything Ossett has to offer and its local community.
“From its famous weekly markets to its commemoration of VE Day paying respect to our veterans, and to the local wildlife such as the peregrine falcon.
“It will welcome locals and visitors alike to the town.”
The mural, which features archway windows inspired by those found in the town hall, will be displayed installed on the side of Richmond’s Butchers, on Market Place.
The work is part of the legacy of Our Year – Wakefield District 2024, supported with investment from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Arts Council England.
Last year, 163 people objected after originals designs were put out for consultation.
They featured symbols of the town’s historic links to the textile industry and images of the Gawthorpe World Coal Carrying Championship, Maypole celebrations and Beercart procession.
One objector said the work was “garish, lacks elegance and would very quickly become an eyesore.”
“My main objection is that this style of mural is not in keeping with the buildings around it, especially the recently renovated Town Hall,” they added.
Another resident said: “Please don’t make us a laughing stock by proceeding with this – it needs careful thought and consultation before proceeding.”
At the time, Julie Russell, the council’s service director for arts, said a new design would be developed alongside the community and artist.
She said: “We’ll be meeting with local heritage groups to discuss ideas for the new design.
“This will then go on public display so that the local community can share their thoughts.”