Pub with Banksy graffiti goes under the hammer

Feb 3 2010 Liverpool Daily Post

SUTTON Kersh will hold its first property auction of 2010 later this month, with 57 lots going under the hammer.

Included in the sale at the Marriott Hotel, in Liverpool city centre on February 18, will be a pub featuring graffiti by the artist, Banksy.

The Whitehouse Pub, on the corner of Berry Street, in the Ropewalks area of the city, is daubed with a giant rat with a machine gun that has been authenticated as an original Banksy artwork.

Originally for sale as part of a much larger development, the prominent Grade II-listed former public house is now available as an individual development opportunity and carries a guide price of £70-£80,000.

While the guide price does not take into account any added value that may be attributed to the artwork, it is anticipated that this may generate offers above the suggested value.

James Kersh, director of auctions at Sutton Kersh, said: “This is a unique opportunity for both investors and Banksy enthusiasts.

“It makes a fantastic auction lot with its quirky appeal, and there has been a lot of pre-auction interest.

“While in need of repair and modernisation, the development is located in a busy area of the city centre and has good potential as a development opportunity subject to the necessary planning consents.”

Two other lots that have attracted interest include a three-story property in Toxteth, and land at the rear of Hope Place.