Calls for replica mosaic in Cirencester to be saved

The famous hare mosaic was found during excavations in Cirencester in 1971

There are calls for a replica of a famous Roman mosaic in Cirencester to be saved as part of a town centre redevelopment.

The work is a copy of the famous 4th Century "hare" mosaic which was found in Beeches Road in the 1970s.

Local historians say it should be saved to "link the area with its past".

Redevelopment plans for the Brewery Court site include a new four screen cinema, shops, a restaurant, cafes and student accommodation.

The replica was made out of modern materials in the early 1970s, shortly after the discovery of the original in 1971, which is now on display in the town's Corinium Museum.

The replica mosaic was made in the 1970s

Historian David Viner said: "When this scheme was originally laid out, this was the focal point of the public space. This was the piece of public art.

"If it could be replaced somewhere else that would be well worth trying, so the new users of this space have some link with the past."

The plans, submitted by Wildmoor Properties, are due to be discussed by Cotswold District Council planners in September.