Banksy works cost public almost £150k

Three Banksy artworks have cost UK taxpayers almost £150,000 in cleaning operations and security so far, with the bill expected to rise. The largest single cost is a mural painted on the Royal Courts of Justice in September 2025, where removal efforts and security have cost more than £85,000. The Ministry of Justice spent £50,000 trying to remove paint from the Grade II-listed building on Carey Street, plus £35,300 in overtime and security. The spending was disclosed to the BBC through Freedom of Information requests.

The mural depicts a judge in a wig battering a protester with his gavel and appeared on 8 September 2025, with Banksy claiming it on his website and Instagram. A HM Courts and Tribunals Service spokesperson said the building is listed and they are obliged to maintain its original character. The Metropolitan Police confirmed they received a criminal damage report and the investigation is ongoing, with no arrests made. Court staff barricaded the area and cleaning began immediately.

The costs have divided opinion. Shadow Justice Secretary Nick Timothy called it "outrageous" that taxpayers' money will be spent cleaning up after Banksy, who should foot the bill. Art critic Estelle Lovatt defended the work, pointing to tourism benefits and the accessibility of Banksy's art, which "brings people together" without a gallery fee. Cleaning efforts are continuing behind scaffolding, panelling and a locked doorway.