Plans have been submitted for a new remembrance mural featuring Second World War veteran and Ilkeston resident Donald Rose.
Erewash Borough Council is seeking listed building consent to paint the mural on the tall brick stairwell beside the bus shelter on Wharncliffe Road, at the left-hand end of the modern council offices behind Ilkeston Town Hall.
The artwork would cover the large blank walls of the projecting stairwell and would be visible from several directions along Wharncliffe Road. It would not be painted on the historic Market Place frontage of the Town Hall.
Planning documents say the mural would commemorate the theme of remembrance and include a portrait of Mr Rose, who died in July 2025 aged 110.
Mr Rose served with the Queen’s Royal Regiment during the Second World War and was Britain’s oldest surviving Second World War veteran at the time of his death.
The documents state: “The subject matter has been chosen to celebrate his extraordinary life and service, while also recognising the courage, sacrifice and dedication of all members of the Armed Forces.”
The project would be funded through the Erewash Investment Fund and forms part of a wider street-art scheme intended to celebrate the culture, heritage and identity of communities across the borough.
The first mural delivered through the scheme was installed at Kirk Hallam Community Corner. It was created by artist Neil Keating in collaboration with local primary schools.
Listed building consent is required because the modern council offices form part of the Grade II-listed Town Hall complex. The site also stands within the Ilkeston Conservation Area.
The submitted plans identify the walls on which the mural would be painted, but do not reveal the finished artwork. No installation date is included in the documents.
If approved, the mural would create a prominent and lasting tribute to a remarkable Ilkeston resident, while also honouring the service and sacrifice of members of the Armed Forces.
The application and its supporting documents have been publicly available through Erewash Borough Council’s online planning register since 17 July 2026. To view the application form, design and access statement, elevations and location plans, visit the council’s planning register and search for application reference PA/2026/0447. Residents can also submit comments on the proposal before a decision is made. Click here to access.