Future of Mapperley’s Del Boy artwork uncertain after building owner served legal notice

The future of Mapperley’s distinctive Del Boy street art is seemingly in limbo after a legal notice was served on the building owner. The face of the much-loved Only Fools and Horses character first appeared on the boarded up Mange Tout restaurant, in Woodborough Road, Mapperley Top, in December.

The design – featuring Del in a Santa hat – would appear a play on his famous French malapropism catchphrases. “Mange Tout, Rodney…”

The former Italian and French restaurant is thought to have sat empty for years – and Gedling Borough Council chiefs have now confirmed a legal notice has been served for the landowner to make improvements to the front of the building.

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A spokesperson for the borough Council said: “Gedling Borough Council strives to constantly improve high street areas across the borough, from supporting business owners to encouraging visitors to the areas.

“The appearance of that vacant property is of concern to the council and we have recently served a legal notice to the landowner which requires them to make improvements to the shopfront, due to its very poor condition. Failure to comply with the notice will result in further legal action being considered by the Council.”

The future of the striking artwork has subsequently been left uncertain. After the artwork was first spotted on the building, some people thought the piece could be a Banksy. This was never confirmed, however.

The classic phrase “Mange Tout, Rodney” has made it onto T-shirts, mugs and greeting cards. Even in the Only Fools and Horses West End Musical, there was a whole musical number named “Mange Tout”.

The musical has a week’s stint at the Theatre Royal in Nottingham in April next year. Tickets for the shows – from Monday, April 21 to Saturday, April 26 – can be booked here.