London council consider renaming street after David Bowie after Brixton mural popularity

Lambeth council are considering naming a street in honour of  David Bowie after the "outpouring of affection" following the artist's death.

Bowie, who sadly died in January aged 69, was born and bought up in and around Brixton. The mural, which is situated just over the road from Brixton's tube station, was originally made to mark his work prior to his death. Since January, the mural has become a shrine, constantly being covered in flowers and letters.

The local council have released a statement confirming that they will protect and locally list the mural to ensure its longevity. It is also considering "many suggestions for a permanent memorial, including statues and place naming". The mural is located in Tunstall Place, but the council are considering changing the street name to honour Bowie.

The statement reads: "Lambeth council is set to locally list the David Bowie mural beside Morleys in Brixton that became a shrine to the artist who died in January. Local listing would protect the mural and the council is also considering renaming the area where the mural is in Tunstall Place. The council is in contact with Bowie’s family about the many suggestions for a permanent memorial, including statues and place naming."

Lib Peck, the leader of Lambeth council, said: "It is ultimately the family’s decision as to what may be appropriate. We must respect that and be patient. Lambeth residents have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of affection visibly demonstrated by floral tributes, messages and people visiting the Bowie mural to pay their respects to this unique ‘Brixton boy’."

"We are also in contact with the Bowie fan club and other Brixton organisations who want to honour the memory and legacy of this extraordinary artist. We will share any word we get from his family that will determine what we do next."