Lauren Hemp mural raises questions over planning permission

North Walsham businessman Robert Scammel had the artwork of the hometown hero commissioned for an exterior wall of Cafe Kitale in St Nicholas Court, which he owns. 

He said dozens of people, including Hemp’s parents, Julie and Kevin, turned out to admire the mural after it was completed by street artist Mr Meana at the weekend. 

But amid widespread praise for the mural on North Walsham community Facebook groups, some doubts were raised over whether it was allowed at the location - which is part of the town’s conservation area. 

People looking at the Lauren Hemp mural in North Walsham - Picture: Supplied by Robert Scammell (Image: Supplied by Lauren Hemp)

Mr Scammell said his architect was speaking to North Norfolk District Council’s (NNDC) planning department over the matter. 

He said: “We’ll see what happens as time goes on.”

NNDC’s spokesperson said: “The council recognises and is proud of Lauren Hemp's fantastic achievements as part of the triumphant England women's team. 

“We're aware of the mural which has been produced in North Walsham celebrating her success and her roots in the town and we intend to discuss the planning requirements with the owner of the building.”

Miss Hemp, 22, is a forward for Manchester City in the Women's Super League. 

She and her teammates in England’s national team shot to stardom after sweeping to victory in the UEFA Women's Euro Cup last year. 

Miss Hemp has won the Professional Footballers' Association Women's Young Player of the Year a record four times. 

She grew up in North Walsham, attending Millfield Primary School and North Walsham High School, before leaving home at just 16 after signing with Bristol City.

Mr Scammell said the reaction to the mural had been “amazing”, and a post about the artwork on Facebook had received a huge number of ‘likes’.