A historic project to bring Civil War banners to the heart of Worcester has reached a major milestone after planning approval was granted in a national first.

The Worcester Civil War Banners Project will bring hand-painted historic banners to the heart of the city, celebrating the city’s pivotal role in the 17th century conflict which sowed the seeds of modern democracy.

Spearheaded by the Battle of Worcester Society, the project has been organised in partnership with Worcester Sixth Form College, Royal Grammar School Worcester, and Heart of Worcestershire College.

The striking designs will celebrate Worcester’s pivotal role in the English Civil War, with the first 16 banners set to appear along Copenhagen Street in summer 2025, bringing 17th-century regimental colours and emblems vividly to life. This is the first English Civil Wars project of its kind in Britain, combining education, public art, and historical storytelling.

The aim is to ‘reimagine Worcester as a living museum, connecting the past to the present in a vibrant, visual form’. It has been made possible thanks to the support of Worcester City Council’s Planning Department.

Worcestershire was the site of the first skirmish, the Battle of Powick Bridge, and the last battle of the English Civil War, the Battle of Worcester.

Organisers hope the scheme can emulate a similar, successful banners scheme in Tewkesbury where banners are flown in the town during the Battle of Tewkesbury Festival. Daniel Daniels, chairman of the Battle of Worcester Society, said: “Securing planning approval is a vital step forward for this living history project. The banners will not only commemorate Worcester’s central role in the English Civil War, but also energise the city centre with an immersive, educational experience. With students at the creative heart of the project, this is Worcester’s history told by its next generation.”

“Each banner will be hand-painted by students from the partner colleges and school, using authentic regimental designs from the period. The Civil War Banners Project is set to become a permanent and evolving feature of Worcester’s cultural landscape, enhancing civic pride and drawing visitors keen to engage with the city’s remarkable past.”

Michelle Dowse, principal and CEO at Heart of Worcestershire College said: “This project has provided a fantastic opportunity for our students to engage with local history in a meaningful and creative way.

“We’re excited to see their work on the English Civil War, especially the Battle of Worcester, shared with the wider community. Collaborating with local partners is something we value highly, and we’re grateful to the Battle of Worcester Society for inviting us to be part of this.”