street art
Hackney Council's new policy distinguishes street art from graffiti, prioritising removal of offensive content.
Hackney Council's Cabinet approved a new policy in July 2026 to manage graffiti and street art, aiming for a more consistent approach across the borough. The policy distinguishes between graffiti, defined as unauthorised markings, and street art, with a priority placed on the swift removal of offensive, discriminatory, or hate-based content.
Under the new guidelines, offensive graffiti will be prioritised for removal within 24 hours of being reported, where possible. This approach by Hackney Council sets clear expectations for public space management by focusing on the nature of the content rather than the act of creation.
Key facts
- Hackney Council's Cabinet approved a new policy on graffiti and street art on July 20, 2026. Source
- The Hackney policy prioritises removal of offensive graffiti within 24 hours of being reported. Source
- The Hackney policy defines graffiti as 'Any markings, drawings, or writings on public or private property that have not been authorised'. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on, with background from Wikipedia. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.