Tourists Disheartened by Pub Awning Blocking Iconic Derry Girls Mural

Tourists visiting Londonderry have expressed their disappointment over a new pub awning that partially obscures the city’s famous Derry Girls mural. Unveiled in 2019, the mural, which depicts characters Erin, Michelle, Orla, Clare, and James from the beloved Channel 4 comedy, quickly became a major attraction. Visitors flocked to Badgers Bar on Orchard Street to snap selfies with the mural, celebrating the show’s local significance.

The planning permission for the new awning, granted in 2022, was installed recently. However, it has come to light that the permission did not cover the section of the bar’s façade where the Derry Girls mural is located. In response to inquiries, the local council confirmed that the current structure breaches the granted permission. The council stated, “The council is currently considering the matter.”

Despite these concerns, Badger’s Bar has declined to make any public statements regarding the situation.

Julie Sargisson, a visitor from New Zealand, noted the show’s immense popularity back home, where it has a strong fan base. She acknowledged that while the awning does partially obstruct the mural, she still finds it an impressive work of art.

Wayne Corcoran, from Newfoundland, Canada, is exploring Ireland and tracing his family roots. Although he appreciates the need for the bar to attract customers and understand the practical aspects, he feels the awning affects the quality of photos taken with the mural.

Isabelle Lang from France, who has visited Ireland numerous times, shared that while she has not seen the show herself, she was advised to visit the mural. She expressed disappointment that the awning covers part of the artwork, even though she understands the practical reasons behind it.

Pam Koekbakker and Tobi Witton from Canada are in Derry for a short stay. Pam, who had previously seen the mural without the awning, expressed regret over the changes. She feels the mural’s visibility is compromised, which diminishes its impact for those unfamiliar with the show. “It was definitely better the last time I saw it,” she remarked.

Niamh Dalton from Ramelton, County Donegal, frequently visits Derry and had brought her friends Annie O’Connor and Rebecca Mueller to see the city’s attractions. Although Niamh had seen the mural many times, she only recently noticed the awning and was dismayed by its effect on the mural’s visibility. Her friend Annie O’Connor, from Boston, added that the awning diminishes the mural’s aesthetic, feeling that it interrupts the artwork in a way that is frustrating for fans of the show.

The Derry Girls series, which aired from 2018 to 2022, earned acclaim including an International Emmy Award for comedy. The mural, a tribute to the series, has become a symbol of both local pride and a significant tourist draw.