Roman hare mosaic restored in Cirencester's Brewery Court

Cotswold District Council leader Joe Harris (second left) helped unveil the restored mosaic

A replica of a famous Roman hare mosaic has been restored as part of a town centre development.

Cotswold District Council agreed to return the artwork to its former glory in Cirencester as part of a £50,000 regeneration project at Brewery Court.

It follows calls from residents in 2013 to repair the mosaic.

The artwork is a copy of a 4th Century relic, revealed by excavations in Beeches Road in 1971, which is now on display in the town's Corinium Museum.

The mosaic was restored as part of a £50,000 restoration at Brewery Court

Residents and business owners gathered alongside civic leaders to watch the unveiling of the restored mosaic on Friday morning.

The replica was designed by local artist Russell Kirk.

The original 4th Century mosaic can be seen at the Corinium Museum

Councillor Joe Harris, leader of the council, said the restored artwork would improve the Brewery Court area of the town.

He added: "I've grown up in Cirencester and seen it (Brewery Court) go from a popular space to gather for a coffee with friends or perhaps enjoy a sandwich on a lunch break, to a sad space that looked run down and in need of life.

"Giving Brewery Court the attention it deserves has been a priority of mine since I became leader and I'm thrilled that our plans to improve the area have now been completed despite a long delay due to the pandemic."

The original mosaic is largely complete but has some areas missing

Mr Harris continued: "It was wonderful to be joined by local residents, community groups, local leaders and members of the Corinium Museum to unveil the newly-restored mosaic which was once the pride of the town.

"I hope all those who live, work or visit Cirencester can enjoy the enhanced Brewery Court."

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