A hidden Banksy in Notting Hill will soon be uncovered.

‘The Painter’ by Banksy first appeared on the corner of Acklam and Portobello Road back in 2008 at the site of the old Falafel King.

But the site at 276 Portobello Road was bought by developers in 2014 and when building work began in September 2018, the mural became covered by scaffolding and has been hidden from passersby ever since.

(Image: Maighna Nanu)

But residents have recently seen glimpses of it as scaffolding was moved about.

The graffiti will be at the centre of the £6.5 million development of luxury flats and restaurants by Enstar Capital.

The mural itself is worth £3.2 million and shows a painter - thought to be Velazquez - with an easel and brush painting the word Banksy in large red lettering from his hand-held palette.

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When the three-storey Victorian building was bought, developers promised to relocate the mural to the first floor so passersby would still be able to admire the artist's work.

The 7ft by 14ft mural, which is one of the longest-standing murals by the mysterious street artist, will be illuminated by spotlights at night.

It is not known when the building work will be finished.