AN IMPORTANT part of Cirencester's heritage was unveiled this morning. 

Residents and business owners gathered alongside civic leaders at Brewery Court in Cirencester on Friday morning, February 23 to witness the unveiling of the newly restored hare mosaic.

Originally crafted as a replica of the fourth-century mosaic discovered in Beeches Road in 1971, the hare mosaic has endured more than 40 years of wear and tear but has now been restored to its former glory.

This significant milestone marks the completion of Cotswold District Council's £50,000 regeneration project at the Brewery Court.

The new replica of the ancient hare mosaic has been designed by local artist Russell Kirk. 

Several improvements have been made to the area over the last few years to enhance its appeal as a community space.

The regeneration project included the removal of stone wall divisions and the installation of new seating areas.

Volunteers from the Phoenix Gardeners group have also been busy replanting and maintaining Brewery Court’s plant beds, cultivating a greener and more vibrant area for all to enjoy.  

Efforts have also been made to conceal bins and refresh cycle posts and bollards.

In collaboration with Gloucestershire County Council, CDC's tree officers have also overseen the planting of new trees.

The final touch will be the two new benches which are due to be installed over the next few weeks.

Cllr Joe Harris, leader of CDC, said: “I’ve grown up in Cirencester and seen it go from a popular space to gather for a coffee with friends or perhaps enjoy a sandwich on a lunch break to a sad space that looked run down and in need of life. 

"Giving Brewery Court the attention it deserves has been a priority of mine since I became leader and I’m thrilled that our plans to improve the area have now been completed despite a long delay due to the pandemic. 

"It was wonderful to be joined by local residents, community groups, local leaders and members of the Coronium Museum to unveil the newly restored mosaic which was once the pride of the town.

"I hope all those who live, work or visit Cirencester can enjoy the enhanced Brewery Court.”