Britain's biggest Banksy artwork may be whitewashed

Britain's biggest Banksy is set to be whitewashed, after it was bought by a builder who hates modern art!

The 30-foot tall painting of a rat holding a machine gun, which is painted on the wall of a former Liverpool pub, was bought at auction on Thursday for #114,000 pounds.

But after snapping up the artwork for a bargain price, property developer Billy Palmer confessed he has no interest in preserving the painting, despite art lovers claims that it should be preserved.

Speaking after the auction at Liverpool's Marriott Hotel, the 44-year-old said: "I'm not a fan of modern art, I can't say I know much about it really.

"All I was concerned about was getting this great building for a good price, I'm going to turn it into luxury flats.

"I might leave the Banksy on the wall until last, just to see how it looks, but it will have to go to get the look I want."

The Grade II listed Georgian property at 60 Berry Street, Liverpool was formerly The Whitehouse Pub.

It was adorned by Bristol-born graffiti giant Banksy, as part of Liverpool's Biennial art festival in 2004.

As an official commission, the work is a rarity for Banksy who has stopped authenticating his work to prevent dealers from cashing-in on his name.

His fame hit new heights in 2009 when his Bristol exhibition saw hundreds of thousands of fans queue for up to five hours to see his latest pieces.

Liverpool-based urban artist specialists Purple Revolver, who have campaigned for the giant Banksy to be preserved, said losing the artwork would be a 'tragedy.'

Director Andy Johnson said: "It would be an absolute tragedy for the city if this artwork was destroyed.

"As a graffiti artist, Banksy has gwon international acclaim for his work, which now commands millions at auction.

"This piece is unique because of its size and the fact that it was commissioned.

"Banksy's work can now only be authenticated by his special task force Pest Control, to stop people stealing his work from the street to sell.

"This artwork must be preserved, and could become a massive tourist attraction if it was looked after."

James Kersh, of Auctioneers SuttonKersh said: "I'm glad this fantastic property has gone to a genuine developer, who will restore a wonderful Georgian building to its former glory."

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