Construction work has begun on student flats in Glasgow which will cover up an iconic mural of Scottish comedy legend Billy Connolly.
The 50ft tribute portrait of the ‘Big Yin’ by artist John Byrne was unveiled in Glasgow’s Osborne Street in 2017.
The portrait, which was created alongside two others to celebrate the comedian’s 75th birthday, has since become a tourist attraction and formed part of the city’s mural trail.
However, construction on an 11-storey student accommodation on the site, which has been empty for several years, will see the mural covered up.
In 2023, Nova Living, speaking on behalf of the developers, said they looked at ways of retaining 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 launched to the development by Merchant City and Trongate Community Council.
Tour guides say the mural is a favourite among visitors to the city every day.
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