New data obtained through Freedom of Information (FOI) requests indicates that the public cost for managing Banksy artworks has climbed to nearly £150,000. These expenses primarily cover the costs associated with protecting, maintaining, and sometimes removing or relocating the street artist's works found in public spaces.

While Banksy’s pieces are often celebrated as cultural assets that can boost local tourism and prestige, the financial burden of their upkeep falls on local councils. The reports highlight that these expenditures are not static; they continue to rise as new works appear or as existing pieces require ongoing conservation efforts to prevent vandalism or environmental decay. The data underscores a growing debate regarding whether the responsibility for preserving these high-profile works should lie with local taxpayers or if alternative funding models, such as private sponsorship or grants, should be explored to mitigate the impact on public budgets. As of now, the costs remain a recurring line item for the municipalities involved.