A Northern Quarter business owner is passionately opposing plans for a block of apartments which would eclipse 'an iconic piece of art'.

The unmissable mural on the side of George Demetrious' Ridelow store in Church Street has intrigued and impressed passersby since it was completed by Subism artists in 2011.

But their view of the unique artwork will be obstructed if plans for a 10-storey block of 40 apartments are approved.

Developers Red Lion Street Limited are seeking permission to erect the apartments on undeveloped land right next to Mr Demetrious' store and the controversial proposals are currently being considered by Manchester City Council.

Mr Demetrious, who has owned the building for a decade, said: "It will completely block the wall and the mural.

"It [the mural] brings countless people pleasure, people of all ages, locals and tourists, like to come and see it and take photos.

"When they feel a little low they go out and look at it to get some pleasure. It's an iconic piece of art and it brings people a lot more pleasure than seeing a load of apartments.

"They [the developers] need to scale it down and be more sensitive to the Northern Quarter. The Northern Quarter has always developed organically on its own, without big money developers.

The 53-year-old added: "They don't think the artwork is important, but they're seeing it from a developers point of view. They should ask the people of Manchester what they think."

"We will object, we have until the end of the month."

Watch: Stunning film about Manchester's Northern Quarter