'Marmite' stripes on listed building might be removed

The owner of Willow & Wolf in Marlborough's pink and white façade could have to repaint over the design

A shop owner who had bright stripes painted to the front of a Grade-II listed building could be forced to repaint the façade.

Residents have described the pink and brown stripes on Willow & Wolf in Marlborough, Wiltshire, as being like marmite, with shoppers either loving or hating the look.

Wiltshire Council officials warned enforcement action could be taken against the owner after the work was completed without planning permission.

Isabella Wookey, owner of the independent boutique, said: "We deeply value Marlborough's heritage, and we are keen to work with the council to ensure the shopfront remains compliant."

The business, based in an 18th Century building, sits within the market town's Conservation Area.

Councillor Adrian Foster, cabinet member for strategic planning, said: "The changes reported about this property will be investigated in accordance with the council's planning enforcement policy."

Councillor Jane Davies said it is important changes to a listed building are conducted with consent as it protects the town's heritage.

"The redecoration of the Willow and Wolf frontage has certainly been a change and opinions are divided.

"It's a marmite scheme - either loved or hated.

"Personally, I think it's quite fun and will draw more shoppers and visitors because it is so different," she added.

Ms Wookey said the repainting had been a "temporary seasonal refresh" which she hoped would add a little extra colour to the High Street.

She added: "We have been truly touched by the kind words and encouragement from local and national customers, retailers and our existing community who are reaching out to us in person and through our 30,000 Instagram following.

"We have been so overwhelmed by this response and are now considering it as a more permanent feature which would of course go through all the necessary channels."