The artwork in Cheltenham by famous and elusive artist ‘Banksy’ could not be salvaged.
The mural appeared on the wall of Grade 2 listed building, 159 Fairview Road, in 2014. It was knocked down in the summer due to cracks and crumbling in the render and fans of the artwork hoped that it would be saved.
But Cheltenham Borough Council have now confirmed that this was not possible.
A spokesperson for the council has said they “regret that it was not possible for the Banksy to be retained as public art, but this proved impractical due to the overall condition of the building.”
The picture depicts three 1950s spies recording information from a phone box. It is thought that it is a reference to GCHQ, the Government’s security and intelligence organisation, which is also in Cheltenham.
I quite like the added #dismaland graffiti on the #cheltenhambanksy. I think it makes it more echt. pic.twitter.com/w0XhlUSznW
— Hamexander Borscht de Piffle Ridware (@Hamstall) January 8, 2016
Despite the artwork being vandalised over its time in Cheltenham, many residents are sad to see it go.
Sad weekend in Cheltenham – sorry end to a great idea #CheltenhamBanksy @wombizclub @BBCGlos pic.twitter.com/0EsPWl9KZa
— Nigel Knowlman (@NigelKnowlman) August 22, 2016
Farewell #spybooth #cheltenhambanksy pic.twitter.com/7Y2q2KAzTF
— Steve Knibbs (@Knibbsey) August 21, 2016