WESTMINSTER COUNCIL WEIGHS FUTURE OF BANKSY FLAG STATUE

Westminster City Council says it is "exploring all options" for the long-term future of Banksy's Blinded by the Flag statue in Waterloo Place. A council spokesperson said the council had explored options "over the summer" but that "no formal decision has been made about its long-term future." The spokesperson did not specify what those options are. It is understood the statue will be discussed at an upcoming council cabinet meeting.

Banksy installed the sculpture in the early hours of 29 April, near statues of Edward VII and Florence Nightingale and the Crimean War Memorial, close to the Mall. It shows a suited man marching off a plinth while carrying a large flag that completely obscures his face. His signature was visible on the work, and he confirmed it was his the next day by sharing footage of its installation. Westminster City Council initially called it a "striking addition to the city's vibrant public art scene" and said it would remain accessible to the public. The piece has been widely interpreted as a commentary on blind allegiance to national symbols.

The council describes itself as the statue's custodian and says it has been in contact with Banksy's team. Banksy retains the copyright, while the council is responsible for the costs of keeping it safe. In a Freedom of Information response in August, the council said ownership "sits with the council as landowner" and that it had told Banksy's agent it was reviewing its options. The same response showed the council has spent almost £60,000 on safety barriers, administration and a security guard. The statue has remained largely undisturbed, though its plinth has since been sprayed with graffiti.