The Abbey Road zebra crossing made famous when it appeared on a Beatles album cover has become the first of its kind to be awarded Grade II listed status.

The crossing, which formed the front cover of the 1969 Abbey Road album, has become something of a Mecca for Beatles fans who flock to replicate the iconic image of the band crossing the road.

English Heritage announced the move on Wednesday following the listing of the Abbey Road studios in February.

Tourism and heritage minister John Penrose said: “This zebra crossing is no castle or cathedral but, thanks to the Beatles and a 10-minute photoshoot one August morning in 1969, it has just as strong a claim as any to be seen as part of our heritage.”

Former Beatle Paul McCartney said: “It’s been a great year for me and a great year for The Beatles and hearing that the Abbey Road crossing is to be preserved is the icing on the cake”

But Abbey Road councillor Lindsey Hall raised the perpetual question of whether the crossing has always been located in its current position or if it used to be located further up the road.

“Some people have said that it’s not actually the same crossing that was used by the Beatles,” she said.

“Are we sure they have got the right place?”