Our ref: FOI-0621-2021/GH

Thank you for your request received by Transport for London (TfL) on 15 July 2020 asking for any communication between the artist known as 'Banksy' and TFL re: recent tube graffiti.
 
Your request has been considered under the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and our information access policy. I can confirm that, although there has been no communication between TfL and the artist known as ‘Banksy’, we do hold some of the information you require.
 
a) any and all details of official sanction for the painting/filming

The graffiti was carried out without TfL’s knowledge or permission.

b) any and all communications between Banksy or his team and TFL, both prior to and after the painting

No such communication has taken place.

c) the cost of removal of this graffiti, and who this cost was paid by

The removal of the graffiti was carried out by our cleaning team as part of their normal duties. The cost is therefore included in the cleaning contract and cannot be separated out for specific incidents.
 
If this is not the information you are looking for, please do not hesitate to contact me.

The impact of current circumstances on TfL’s resources means we are not able to answer FOI requests readily and we ask that you please do not make a request to us at present.
 
Answering FOI requests will require the use of limited resources and the attention of staff who could be supporting other essential activity. In any event, please note that our response time will be affected by the current situation.

If you are not satisfied with this response please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.

Yours sincerely

Graham Hurt
FOI Case Officer
FOI Case Management Team
General Counsel
Transport for London