Iconic Billy Connolly mural completely covered by student flats

An iconic mural of Scottish comedy legend Billy Connolly is now completely covered by student flats.

The 50ft tribute portrait of the ‘Big Yin’ by artist John Byrne was unveiled in Glasgow’s Osborne Street in 2017.

The portrait, created alongside two others to celebrate the comedian’s 75th birthday, has since become a tourist attraction and has formed part of the city’s mural trail.

However, the construction of an 11-storey student accommodation on the site, which has been empty for several years, has now completely covered the mural.

In 2023, Nova Living, speaking on behalf of the developers, said they considered ways to retain the art – but it would not “be possible”.

Glasgow City Council pointed to past murals that have been removed due to redevelopment in the city – confirming that artworks have always been created to bring “temporary life” to sites.

Objections were raised to the development by Merchant City and Trongate Community Council.

Tour guides say the mural is a favourite among visitors to the city.