Banksy's goat artwork removed from London building

The building owner's said the goat painting was removed to perform long-planned building works

An artwork by Banksy has been removed from the side of a building in west London.

A statement on behalf of the building's owner Boss & Co. gunmakers, said they made the decision as part of refurbishment works that were "essential for the long-term future of the property".

The goat painting on Kew Green, Kew was the first in an animal-based series of works by Banksy across London last summer.

The building owners said the work was "carefully" removed to "ensure its conservation and protection" and when completed they would "explore options for its future display".

The Banksy goat attracted attention to the otherwise underwhelming wall last August

A statement from the Fine Art Restoration Company, which has been appointed by Boss & Co. to look after the artwork, said: "The owners recognise the cultural significance of the goat, a piece by the renowned British artist Banksy, and appreciate the community's interest in and affection for the artwork."

Planning permission was already in place for the improvement works prior to Banksy leaving his mark on it, according to the statement.

They said the removal and conservation was carried out by "specialist art conservators with with expertise in preserving street art".

It is understood the artwork was removed earlier this week

When asked by BBC News, the Fine Art Restoration Company was not in a position to say if the artwork would return to Kew Green or London more generally.

A representative for Banksy declined to comment.