THE FAMOUS Redditch mosaics inside the Kingfisher Shopping Centre has been given Grade II listed status.
The mural by the Scottish artist and sculptor Sir Eduardo Paolozzi was unveiled in the centre’s Milward Square in 1983.
Historic England, which recommended the listing, praised the craftsmanship of the 12 mosaic panels, which feature a collage of images symbolising the impact of Redditch’s needle industry.
Paolozzi, who died in 2005, was a leading figure in the pop art movement and won the commission to produce the mural after centre bosses issued a brief on the work.
Funding came from Redditch Development Corporation, the Needles Industry Group and the Arts Council of Great Britain.
The listed status for the Redditch mural highlights it as being of special architectural or historic interest and subject to more controls when it comes to making any proposed changes.
Redditch Borough Council’s portfolio holder for leisure and recreation, Coun Juliet Barker Smith, said: “I remember The Queen’s visit to Redditch and feeling enormously proud of our rich cultural heritage – the Paolozzi mosaics were one of the largest art commissions outside London at the time.
“They have been a much‑loved part of the town’s landscape for decades, celebrating the importance of arts and culture in shaping community pride.
“I am thrilled to bits to see this remarkable piece of public art recognised with listed status, ensuring it is protected and cherished for generations to come.”
Milward Square is part of the Kingfisher Shopping Centre which was constructed in three phases between 1970 and 1981.
The square was named in honour of the Milward family who were synonymous with Redditch’s needle making industry.
The mosaics were crafted in Spilimbergo, Northern Italy, a town with over two centuries of tradition in mosaic making.
Using Paolozzi’s hand‑coloured designs, artisans hand‑painted and cut each piece of glass before installation.
Paolozzi selected glass tiles for their permanence and ability to retain their brilliance.
The completed murals were unveiled in 1983 by Sir William Rees‑Mogg, then Chairman of the Arts Council, shortly before Queen Elizabeth II formally opened Milward Square later that year.
