A mural of David Bowie that became a shrine to the musician after his death earlier this year is to be listed by the local council to ensure it becomes a permanent landmark.

Lambeth Council announced this week that it was in discussions with the late singer’s family in New York City as to the possibility of a permanent memorial to Bowie, and about what form it should take.

The huge mural became a focal point for public grieving after Bowie’s death from cancer was announced back in January. Rumoured possibilities as the memorial include renaming Tunstall Place, where the painting is situated, in honour of the singer, and a statue.

David Bowie muralThe David Bowie mural in Brixton, south London

The mural, of Bowie with his distinctive ‘lightning bolt’ face paint from the 1973 album Aladdin Sane, is on the side of the Morleys department store near the underground station in Brixton, the South London area near where he was born in 1947. It was created by Australian artist Jimmy C in 2013, after he researched Bowie’s life and got permission from the department store.

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“It is ultimately the family's decision as to what may be appropriate,” said Councillor Lib Peck, leader of Lambeth Council in a statement. “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'.”

David BowieDavid Bowie passed away in January 2016

The council has already promised to preserve messages left on the brick wall next to the mural, while drawings and cards left at the site have been transferred to their archives. Any flowers still remaining at the memorial are to be removed next week, however.

“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,” Peck added.

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