Once a quiet, picturesque town, this now-buzzing hotspot has become a magnet for hipsters and tourists eager to snap the perfect Instagram shot against its graffiti-covered walls. But beneath the vibrant murals and trendy cafes lies a growing resentment among locals who say their home has been turned into a playground for outsiders.
A Town Transformed—But at What Cost?
What was once a charming high street is now a sea of spray-painted buildings, with businesses struggling to stay afloat amid the chaos. Longtime residents say the council has turned a blind eye to their concerns, prioritizing the town's 'edgy' reputation over the needs of the community.
'It's Not Art—It's Vandalism'
Local shop owners report broken windows, littered streets, and a decline in foot traffic from regular customers. "Tourists come, take photos, and leave—they don’t spend money here," says one frustrated business owner. "The council doesn’t care because it helps sell luxury apartments to investors who don’t even live here."
The Luxury Loophole
Developers have capitalized on the area's newfound 'cool factor,' marketing high-end flats to wealthy buyers drawn in by the graffiti aesthetic. Meanwhile, longtime residents feel pushed out, with rising rents and dwindling local services.
"We’re being erased," says a local artist who grew up in the area. "This was our home before it became a backdrop for influencers."
