Why the Reading Gaol Banksy isn’t protected by listing

The wall was rebuilt in 1970 and, along with new buildings built at the site around the same time, is considered “not of special interest”.

According to Reading Civic Society, the Banksy piece is not ever likely to be listed, or at least not for another 30 years.

READ MORE: Security fence being installed round Banksy jail artwork

Reading Civic Society tweeted: “It has been added to the listing under the Enhance the List process but not to the main body of the listing.

“The walls of the Gaol are not listed so it is unlikely it will ever be.

“Historic England have a 30-year rule for new features so it will go no further.”

The Fenced Banksy Piece 2

The perimeter wall where the Banksy piece lies is specifically excluded from the listing – after being considered “not of special interest” – and so listed building consent would not be needed to remove it.

However, Historic England said it “maintains that despite being modern the wall contributes to the significance of the prison – it follows the line of the original wall and it gives the building a sense of enclosure that is central to its character”.

Another cherished piece of art in Reading has hit the 30-year mark and could be set for listing.

Reading’s Black History Mural turned 30 in 2020 and there are growing calls for it to be listed, with two organisations putting forward applications to Historic England.

READ MORE: Reading’s Black History Mural could get extra local protection

While the Black History Mural is certainly here to stay, with the council and the developer of the former Central Club committing to preserving it, the future of the Banksy piece is less clear.

The prison and its walls are owned by the Ministry of Justice, which is trying to sell the site, and currently Reading Borough Council (RBC) is being given a chance to buy it.

It is likely the council would keep the Banksy artwork in place as part of its plans for a theatre and hub, but, if its bid fails, another successful purchaser may choose to sell it for profit.

However, one owner who has bought 40 Banksy pieces, said he has no interest in purchasing the Reading artwork due to its shape.

READ MORE: Collector with 40 Banksy pieces explains why he’s not interested in Reading mural

Meanwhile, the Reading Banksy saga has taken another twist, with a possible second Banksy spotted by Reading Bridge.

The Second Typewriter Grafitti

Passers by seemed to think it was a genuine Banksy, although they agreed it is not the same typewriter and does not have as much detail as the original.