A new Banksy sculpture has appeared in central London, depicting a suited man marching off a plinth with a billowing flag covering his face. The piece was spotted on Waterloo Place in Pall Mall on Wednesday, and the artist confirmed it as his work on Instagram on Thursday.
Westminster City Council has welcomed the installation, stating that it makes a striking addition to the city's public art scene. A spokesperson said the council has taken initial steps to protect the statue but will keep it accessible for the public to view and enjoy while options are considered.
Banksy, whose identity remains unconfirmed, has been active since the 1990s with politically charged works such as Girl With Balloon and Love Is In The Air. His street art is often left in place, though some pieces have been removed or stolen.
The council's positive response contrasts with previous reactions from authorities. In September 2024, a Banksy mural at the Royal Courts of Justice was scrubbed, and Transport for London removed a coronavirus-themed piece from a tube carriage in 2020 due to anti-graffiti policy.
